TICHENOR INTRODUCES BILL TO PROVIDE
MATERNITY LEAVE FOR TEACHERS
FRANKFORT, KY. (February 15, 2024) – Sen. Lindsey Tichenor, R-Smithfield, introduced legislation that would provide for 20 days of paid maternity leave for teachers and public school employees across Kentucky.
“I filed this bill, along with so many other bills specific to our public schools, because I have a heart for mothers who nurture our children and play key roles in our education system," Tichenor said. “They deserve to enjoy and savor that precious time when they bring a new baby into their family.”
The legislation is Senate Bill 205 (SB 205) and would provide any public school teacher or employee who gives birth paid leave without any salary deduction or reduction in accumulated sick leave for the first 20 days.
If signed into law, paid maternity days could be used before the teacher or employee uses any other leave. Any paid maternity days unused by the teacher or employee would not be transferred into sick leave and would expire upon return to work.
“We have to honor such a significant event in a teacher’s or school employee's life as the birth of their child,” said Tichenor. “This is a real benefit that I am proud to champion on behalf of every mother who supports our children in our public schools because educating our children is a labor of love, and I think this bill is much needed.”
The law currently allows a teacher or other school district employee to use up to 30 days of sick leave following the birth or adoption of a child or children. Additional days may also be used when a physician's statement verifies the need.
###
Senator Lindsey Tichenor, R-Smithfield, represents the 6th Senate District, including Oldham and Trimble Counties and part of Jefferson County. She serves as a Senate Education; Families and Children; and Health Services Committee member. Tichenor is also a Budget Review Subcommittee on Human Resources Committee member.