Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Appropriations Committee

HB 2044

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Summary of Bill

Delays the payment of family leave insurance benefits until the Legislature appropriates funding and enacts an implementation date.
Delays the due dates of annual reports to the Legislature on the family leave insurance program until one year after the enacted implementation date of benefits.

Background:

In 2007 the Legislature enacted Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill 5659, which established a framework for a family leave insurance program. The Legislature delayed implementation of the family leave insurance program in 2009 and 2011.

Beginning October 1, 2015, the family leave insurance program would provide benefits of up to $250 per week for up to five weeks to eligible employees who are unable to perform their regular or customary work due to the birth of a child or to care for a newly adopted child.

Beginning on September 1, 2016, the agency administering the program must report annually to the Legislature on program participation, premium rates, fund balances, and outreach efforts.

Summary of Bill:

The October 1, 2015, implementation date for family leave insurance benefits is removed. Family leave insurance benefits will become payable when the Legislature has specifically appropriated funding and enacted an implementation date.

The September 1, 2016, effective date for annual reports to the Legislature is removed. The administering agency will begin submitting annual reports to the Legislature one year after the enacted implementation date of benefits.