WINTER 2007/08

Adoption Bill in Michigan Legislature

A new bill has been introduced in the Michigan House which would insure families adopting a baby at birth are treated the same, with regard to time off of work and whether leave is paid or not, as employees who give birth to a biological child. 

Under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act, employees are allowed to take a certain amount of time away from work after the birth of a baby for care and bonding purposes. This can apply to the father as well as the mother. 

House Bill 5261 would require that employers in Michigan provide the same leave policy to parents whom adopt a child at birth.
A committee hearing was held for this bill on December 5, 2007, in the Committee for Family and Child Services. During the hearing, testimony was given on the bill.  While a vote was not taken on December 5, it appears the bill has growing support in the Michigan legislature.  It is possible the bill could be voted on in committee on December 12 and then reported to the House floor.

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