SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 2246
As of February 20, 2024
Title: An act relating to vacation leave accrual for state employees.
Brief Description: Concerning vacation leave accrual for state employees.
Sponsors: Representatives Bateman, Low, Gregerson, Bronoske, Robertson, Reeves, Paul, Reed and Doglio.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/12/24, 97-0.
Committee Activity: Labor & Commerce: 2/20/24.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Increases the maximum number of hours of unused vacation leave a state employee may accrue from 240 hours to 280 hours. 
SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR & COMMERCE
Staff: Jarrett Sacks (786-7448)
Background:

State employees are entitled to at least eight hours of vacation leave for each month of employment. The amount of vacation leave a state employee earns increases depending on the number of years the employee is continuously employed. Employees may accrue a maximum of 240 hours of unused vacation leave. Leave in excess of 240 hours may be accrued prior to an employee's anniversary date of employment, but the excess leave is extinguished if it is not used by the anniversary date. 

 

If an employee's request for vacation leave is deferred by their employer, and a statement of necessity is retained by the employer, then the 240 hour maximum is extended for each month the leave is deferred. When an employee separates from state employment as a result of a reduction in force, resignation, dismissal, retirement, or death, the employee or their estate is entitled to be reimbursed for any accrued vacation leave. 
Summary of Bill:

The maximum number of hours of unused vacation leave a state employee may accrue is increased to 280 hours. 
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.