Georgia House Bill HR1048

Georgia 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/26

Caption

General Assembly; adopt the Georgia Bereaved Parents and Family Support Act of 2026; urge

Impact

If enacted, the act would limit bereavement leave to a maximum of two weeks per deceased immediate family member, with a total of four weeks. It is specifically aimed at businesses with twenty-five or more employees, ensuring the framework aligns with existing employment laws. Notably, while the bill does not require paid leave, it allows for the use of accrued paid leave, sick leave, or vacation during the bereavement period, presenting a flexible response to the needs of bereaved families while considering employer capabilities.

Summary

House Resolution 1048 urges the introduction and adoption of the Georgia Bereaved Parents and Family Support Act of 2026, aiming to provide up to six weeks of job-protected bereavement leave for parents experiencing the death of a child. The resolution underscores that the death of a child has profound emotional, psychological, and physical impacts on parents and families. Current bereavement leave practices in Georgia are often viewed as inconsistent and inadequate, necessitating a more compassionate and structured approach to support affected families during this critical time.

Contention

Supporters of this resolution argue that it reflects a necessary advancement in employee rights, promoting mental health and workforce stability by providing adequate time for grieving parents. However, there may be opposition from certain business groups concerned about the potential burden associated with implementing these changes to their leave policies. This highlights the ongoing conversation regarding work-life balance and the responsibilities of employers in light of personal and family tragedies, emphasizing the need for a compassionate approach to employment policies.