More Paid Leave for More Americans Act

The bill establishes a federal grant program administered by the Secretary of Labor to support states in developing or enhancing paid leave programs. This competitive grant program aims to expand access to paid leave benefits for workers across the nation. States are eligible if they have enacted a law establishing an eligible paid leave program, with priority given to those without existing programs, those participating in the Interstate Paid Leave Action Network (I-PLAN), and those serving low-income populations. To qualify for grants, state paid leave programs must provide at least six weeks of paid leave within a 12-month period for qualifying reasons, such as personal or family medical needs. These programs must establish a weekly maximum benefit of 150 percent of the state's average weekly wage and utilize a covered partnership , which can involve private entities or employer self-administration. Benefit amounts are structured on a sliding scale, ensuring higher wage replacement rates for lower-income employees, starting at not less than 67 percent of average weekly earnings for those at or below the poverty line. Grant funds can be used for various purposes, including start-up costs, benefit payouts, program design, software, technical assistance, and extensive outreach to employers and the public. The Department of Labor will oversee the program, requiring annual reports from states on fund usage and the number of individuals utilizing paid leave. The Inspector General will also conduct annual audits to ensure compliance and prevent waste, fraud, or abuse. The bill also establishes the Interstate Paid Leave Action Network (I-PLAN) , designed to foster an interstate agreement among participating states. The I-PLAN's primary goal is to create a single policy and administrative standard, streamlining benefit delivery and reducing administrative burdens for employees and employers operating across state lines. This includes standardizing definitions for key terms like "benefit day" and "employee eligibility," and establishing processes for employer information requests and payroll contributions. A national intermediary will receive a grant to facilitate I-PLAN activities, including convening state focals, producing annual reports comparing state programs, and developing a standardized technology system for wage data. States participating in the I-PLAN can receive conforming grants to support their involvement and implementation grants once they adopt the I-PLAN Agreement. These grants help cover administrative costs and provide assistance to small businesses, further promoting the accessibility and effectiveness of paid leave programs.