LEOFF 1 Advisory Group Update

The LEOFF 1 Advisory Group, established in cooperation with the Department of Retirement Systems and comprised of local government employers, LEOFF 1 retirees and others continues to meet on a regular basis to gather information into a fact sheet by fall of this year and then begin discussions to identify a means of assisting local government meet the State Actuary defined liability of $1.745 billion. The next meeting is scheduled for early September.

Family Leave Insurance (E2SSB 5659)

E2SSB 5659, passed last year, created a new insurance program to give new parents $250 a week for up to five weeks while they take time off from work to bond with a new born or newly adopted child. Earlier this year the Legislature approved funding of $6.2 million for the Department of Employment Security (ESD) to build a computer system to process payments for paid family leave. However, a state hiring freeze could place this already controversial computer project in jeopardy. ESD was in the process of hiring staff to complete the project when the hiring freezes when into effect August 4. How to pay for the new benefit has not been determined, but may become a question for the voters.

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