Paid Family Medical Leave (HF2) passed the House by a vote of 68-64 last night. Two Democrats – Representative Lislegard and Representative Pelowski -- voted against it. A long debate included introduction of numerous amendments. Few were accepted.

Progress from the initial bill came in the form of two eligibility amendments:

• the program will be capped at 18 week, rather than the 24 initially proposed
• the definition of family will mimic federal PFML program  

Hospitality Minnesota member Representative Dave Baker (R-Willmar) offered an amendment establishing a substitute plan that would not mandate employers to offer leave but allow for voluntary participation in a plan offering the same benefits that state employees currently have. That amendment was rejected.  

The bill now goes to the Senate, where it is eligible for a vote on the floor. It is anticipated the Senate will take up the bill soon, so they can go to conference committee to iron out their differences.