Family Medical Leave Modernization Act
Key claim: The proposed legislation would expand Family and Medical Leave Act coverage to domestic partners and chosen family members, while granting additional leave for school events, routine medical visits, and eldercare.
Abstract
(S1185 · 117th Congress) Family Medical Leave Modernization Act This bill expands who is permitted to take qualifying family and medical leave and provides additional leave for parents and family caregivers. The bill grants leave to private sector and federal employees to care for a domestic partner and any individual whose close association with such employees is like a family relationship, regardless of biological or legal relationship, if (1) such individual has a serious health condition, or (2) there is a qualifying exigency due to such employees’ active duty in the Armed Forces. The bill entitles an employee who is a domestic partner, next of kin of a member of the Armed Forces, or any individual whose close association is like a family relationship, regardless of biological or legal relationship, to take leave to care for the service member. The bill entitles private sector and federal employees to take additional leave to participate in or attend their children’s and grandchildren’s school or community organization activities, meet routine family medical care needs, or care for their elderly relatives. Latest action (2021-04-15): Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. (text: CR S1988-1990)
[This finding represents 2 closely related documents issued 2021-04-15 (same source, same action). Related: congress:117-hr-2589:introduced]
Why this matters
The proposal would broaden both whom eligible workers can take leave to care for and which activities qualify, extending FMLA protections to more caregiving relationships and routine family responsibilities. Covered employers would face expanded leave-administration obligations if enacted; introduction alone does not change current worker entitlements or employer duties.