Relative to bereavement leave for the loss of a child
Impact
If enacted, the bill will amend Chapter 149 of the General Laws by introducing Section 52F. The policy mandates that bereavement leave be compensated at the employee's regular pay rate and allows for the accrual of regular employment benefits during this time. Moreover, the bill provides a structure for employers to manage bereavement leave, requiring them to notify employees of their rights and reserves the enforcement of these provisions to the attorney general, who can seek injunctive relief to uphold the law.
Summary
House Bill 2064, introduced by Representative Arciero, addresses the bereavement leave policies concerning the loss of a child. The bill seeks to establish a statutory right for employees to take up to 10 days of paid bereavement leave upon the death of a child, defined as a biological, adopted, foster child, or stepchild under the age of 18. This provision is aimed at providing necessary support to grieving parents during a profoundly challenging time, ensuring they have the time to grieve without the added stress of financial strain due to lost wages.
Contention
While the bill has received support from various legislators and advocacy groups, it may face contention in terms of employer flexibility and the potential burden on small businesses. Critics may argue that the mandatory policy could impose additional costs on employers during already difficult economic times. However, the bill includes provisions indicating that it does not restrict any existing bereavement policies that may offer more generous leave than provided within this statute, aiming to balance the needs of employees with the realities faced by employers.