Credit: scblackcaucus.com
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Legislation sponsored by Sen. Darrell Jackson (D-Richland) to expand paid parental leave for South Carolina state employees is headed to the Governor's desk after receiving final approval by the General Assembly today.
The bipartisan measure broadens eligibility for the state's paid parental leave program, ensuring more state employees, including temporary grant-funded, time-limited, and part-time employees who earn annual leave, can access this important benefit. The legislation also increases paid leave for eligible non-birthing parents from two weeks to four weeks and recognizes stillbirth as a qualifying event for paid parental leave.
"This legislation is about supporting South Carolina's working families," said Sen. Jackson. "When we invest in parents during one of the most important moments in their lives, we strengthen families, improve employee retention, and make state government a better place to work. I'm proud that this bipartisan effort will expand access to paid parental leave for thousands of dedicated public servants across our state while recognizing the needs of families during both moments of joy and moments of unimaginable loss."
The legislation, sponsored by Senator Darrell Jackson, builds upon South Carolina's existing paid parental leave law by expanding eligibility and strengthening benefits for state employees. If signed by the Governor, the law will take effect on October 1, 2026.