Change to paid parental leave for NC school employees in talks

State education leaders on Wednesday will consider a change in how paid parental leave is given to public school employees, including those who experience miscarriage or stillbirth.

Currently under a temporary rule established last year, North Carolina public school employees receive two months of paid parental leave after having a baby. The final rule up for discussion Wednesday adds more guidelines, including addressing leave for miscarriages and stillbirths.

The temporary policy went into effect July 1 until state leaders could finalize a permanent rule.

In the new rule under consideration, employees would receive a month off for a miscarriage that occurs after 12 weeks of pregnancy and two months off for a stillbirth. The rule would apply to both parents.

The new rule proposed by the State Board of Education would go into effect for the 2024-2025 school year if the board chooses to move forward.

A discussion will take place at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the State Board of Education building in Raleigh. A vote is not expected until later.