Core Provisions: S.1898 and S.1975 would extend the FMLA provision of 12 weeks of unpaid leave to up to six months for spouses, children and parents of soldiers injured in combat; H.R.3481 would include primary caregivers as well. S.1894 would extend the FMLA to up to 26 work weeks for primary caregivers of service members with combat-related injuries, and H.R.3391 would extend the FMLA to up to 26 work weeks for spouses, children and parents.

Status: S.1898 was introduced in the Senate by Sen. Clinton (D-NY) on July 30, 2007 and was referred to the HELP Committee. Sen. Dodd (D-CT) introduced S.1894 on July 26, 2007, and he also introduced S.1975 on August 2, 2007. Both bills were referred to the HELP Committee. H.R.3481 was introduced in the House by Rep. Woolsey (D-CA) on September 6, 2007 and was referred to the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections, while Rep. Issa (R-CA) introduced H.R.3391 on August 3, 2007, which was also referred to the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections. S.1898 currently has nine co-sponsors, S.1894 has 10 co-sponsors, S.1975 has 16 co-sponsors, H.R.3481 has 70 co-sponsors, and H.R.3391 has five co-sponsors.

Core Provisions: This act would require employers with at least 15 employees who work at least 30 hours a week to provide seven days of paid sick leave and pro-rated leave for part-time employees. The leave could be used for the employee, “a child, a parent, a spouse, or any other individual related by blood or affinity whose close association with the employee is the equivalent of a family relationship” requiring care for an illness, injury, or medical condition, or for obtaining medical diagnosis or preventative care. The legislation includes a private right of action for employees to sue their employer, and a posting requirement.

Status: H.R. 1542 was introduced by Rep. DeLauro (D-CT) on March 15, 2007, and on June 27, 2007 it was referred to the House Workforce Protections and Health, Employment, Labor and Pensions Subcommittees. S.910 was introduced by Sen. Kennedy (D-MA) on March 15, 2007 and referred to the HELP Committee.