Peoria County reports nine employees used paid parental leave since October; cost just under $60,000

Angela Loftus presented a summary of Peoria County's paid parental leave program during the June 23 committee meeting, reporting that five departments have participated and nine employees have used the benefit since the policy was approved in October. "The total hours at the time of this report were just over the 1,400 hours," Loftus said, and she reported a fiscal impact "just under $60,000."

Loftus said usage averages about 230 240 hours per participant and that departments operating 24-hour shifts face the greatest coverage challenges. Committee members thanked staff and discussed how often the committee should receive updates; members agreed to continue reporting every six months until additional experience or further changes are needed.

Next steps: HR will provide a follow-up update in approximately six months so the committee can reassess operating impacts and potential policy refinements.