Historic law now grants paid parental leave for teachers and state employees
DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) –A historic bill was signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey, giving teachers and state employees more time at home with their newest editions to the family, without taking a hit to their bank accounts.
On Wednesday, the governor signed the Alabama Public Employee Paid Parental Leave Act of 2025 into law.
Teachers and state employees will now be offered up to eight weeks of maternity leave and two weeks of paternity leave after the birth, stillbirth, or miscarriage of a child.
Adoptive parents of a three or younger child will also be eligible for eight weeks for one parent and two weeks for the other. The parents will make this choice at their discretion.
'This new law reflects our values. No parent should have to choose between their paycheck and spending time with their newly welcomed child. Today, Alabama sends a clear message: We value families, and we value our workforce,' said Gov Ivey.
This new law also includes a return-to-work provision. This requires employees to return to work for at least eight weeks after taking leave, except in circumstances such as serious health conditions.
Sen. Vivian Figures and Rep. Ginny Shaver sponsored the law.
'Paid leave is an essential tool for workforce and economic growth, providing education and state employees with the opportunity to care for their newborn or newly adopted child without worrying about unnecessary financial strain,' said Sen. Figures.
The new law will go into effect on July 1, 2025.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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