Proposed bill would extend family and medical leave for miscarriages & stillbirths

The Guam Legislature convened for a regular session on Friday. During today’s session, lawmakers discussed a bill authored by Senator Will Parkinson and co-sponsored by Senator Amanda Shelton that would extend family care and medical leave for miscarriages and stillbirths.

Parkinson said the bill fills the gaps in the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, noting, "Our bill corrects this by providing up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave. This ensures that no individual or family member has to choose between their job, and their health benefits, and their time to heal."

Shelton added, "[It would allow] better protections and coverage for much needed time off for women across our island who many experience a major life event such as a miscarriage or stillbirth."

The bill was moved to the Third Reading File and is likely to be voted on next week.

Meanwhile, Senator Sabina Perez also discussed her bill to establish the Guam Solid Waste Authority Islandwide Collection Plan. That was debated and some amendments were suggested.

They’ll pick up the conversation when they return from recess on Monday at 2 pm.