On Feb. 25, Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey announced the filing of the Alabama K-12 Public School and State Employe Paid Parental Leave Act of 2025, lending her support towards the bill.

Ivey committed to supporting such a bill during her State of the State Address in January to “support Alabama families and recruit and retain highly talented public school teachers and state employees.” The legislation is sponsored by Sen. Vivian Figures and Rep. Ginny Shaver. 

“First, if a teacher wants to start a family, she should have the proper maternity leave,” Ivey said. “That is why I am proud to have Senator Vivian Figures and Representative Ginny Shaver joining forces this year to pass a good, responsible parental leave bill to support both our state workers and teachers.”

The legislation would provide eligible state employees and public school employees with fully paid parental leave in connection with the birth, stillbirth, miscarriage or adoption of a child. Under the proposed law, a female eligible employee would receive eight weeks of paid parental leave in connection with the birth, stillbirth or miscarriage of a child. A male eligible employee would receive two weeks of paid parental leave in those same circumstances. The bill would also provide specified amounts of paid parental leave for eligible employees who adopt a child aged three or younger.

“In Alabama, we are committed to strengthening families and ensuring our hardworking state employees – including our teachers – have the support they need during life’s most important moments,” said Ivey. “Welcoming a child is one of the greatest joys in life, and this legislation will ensure that Alabama parents do not have to face the decision of securing financial stability or spending time at home with their newborn or newly adopted child.”

The legislation also includes a return-to-work provision, requiring employees to resume their positions for at least eight weeks following their paid parental leave. Exceptions may be granted in certain circumstances, including cases of serious health conditions.