Senate amends PFML bill

An amendment to Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML) allows union employees to opt into coverage if they are not currently covered.

HB 2614 provides clarity and updates to the administration of the PMFL program. Included in the original bill is an exemption for individuals who perform casual labor from program coverage. The bill also allows for employees under specific circumstances to bring private action against an employer for unlawful acts.

The amendment to HB 2614 adopted by the Senate Labor & Commerce Committee opens the option for PFML coverage to union employees not currently covered due to their collective bargaining agreement. Union employees who elect coverage are responsible for 100% of all premiums assessed to an employee. An employer may elect to pay all or a portion of those premiums.

To be eligible for coverage, a union employee must file a notice of election in writing with the Employment Security Department (ESD) and their employer, as well as have worked 820 hours during the qualifying period.

Upon request, employers must provide qualifying period wages and hours related to the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) within ten days of the department issuing the request. Additionally, the employer will be responsible for collecting premiums and surcharges through payroll deductions and remit the payments to DRS.

If passed, the bill goes into effect on July 1, 2020.

HB 2614 is currently in the Rules Committee awaiting a Senate vote.