The Serenity Act Legislation

One Week of Paid Mental Health Leave Act

Purpose: To provide employees with the right to take one week of paid leave per year for mental health reasons.

Section 1: Definitions

  • Mental Health: Refers to a person's overall psychological well-being, including emotional, behavioral, and cognitive functioning.

  • Employee: Refers to any individual who is employed by a covered employer.

  • Covered Employer: Refers to any employer with 15 or more employees.

Section 2: One Week of Paid Mental Health Leave

  • All covered employers shall provide their employees with the right to take one week of paid leave per year for mental health reasons.

  • Employees may use this leave for their own mental health needs or to care for a family member with mental health needs.

  • Employees must provide notice of their intention to take mental health leave in accordance with the employer's policies and procedures.

  • Employers may not retaliate or discriminate against employees who take mental health leave.

Section 3: Eligibility

  • Employees shall be eligible for mental health leave after completing six months of continuous employment with a covered employer.

  • Employees may take mental health leave in increments of no less than one day.

Section 4: Certification

  • Employers may require certification from a health care provider confirming the need for mental health leave.

  • Employers shall not disclose any confidential medical information obtained from a health care provider.

Section 5: Enforcement and Penalties

  • The Department of Labor shall have the authority to enforce this Act and investigate any violations.

  • Employers who violate this Act shall be subject to penalties, including fines and back pay for affected employees.

  • Employees who experience retaliation or discrimination for taking mental health leave may file a complaint with the Department of Labor.

Section 6: Effective Date

  • This Act shall take effect 90 days after its enactment into law.

Conclusion: The One Week of Paid Mental Health Leave Act aims to support employees' mental health needs and reduce the stigma around mental health in the workplace. By providing paid leave for mental health reasons, employers can help to promote a healthy work-life balance and improve employee morale and productivity.
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