Statement on the Passage of the Mississippi State Employees Paid Parental Leave Act

As a co-sponsor of House Bill 1063, I am proud to see the Mississippi State Employees Paid Parental Leave Act pass the Legislature and go to the Governor's desk. This policy represents a significant step forward in supporting working families across our state, providing eligible state employees with six weeks of paid parental leave for primary caregivers following the birth or adoption of a child.

This initiative was a key recommendation I made to the House of Representatives Commission on the Sanctity of Life when it was first established by Speaker Gunn. By ensuring that new parents employed by the state have the time to bond with their children without financial strain, we are reinforcing our commitment to the well-being of families in Mississippi.

However, I am deeply disappointed that the final version removed two weeks of paid parental leave for secondary caregivers and does not extend to our teachers. Educators are fundamental to the success and future of our state, and they deserve the same opportunity to care for their growing families without financial hardship. Moving forward, I will continue to advocate for policies that ensure all public employees, including teachers, have access to paid parental leave.

This bill is a step in the right direction, but our work is not done. Mississippi must continue to invest in policies that support working families and create a more family-friendly state for all.