KC Council approves paid parental leave for city employees

The Kansas City Council on Thursday approved paid parental leave for eligible city government employees, which is a common benefit in the private sector but rarer in the public sector.

Under the policy, mothers and fathers would receive up to six weeks paid leave, beginning May 1, 2016, due to the birth or adoption of the employee’s child.

“It is an important benefit to our employees,” Mayor Sly James said, adding that it will help parents bond with their infants as municipal government tries to promote family-friendly policies.

The move could cost the general fund $500,000 a year but Human Resources Director Gary O’Bannon said it’s worth that to attract and retain good employees.

This story was originally published June 25, 2015 at 3:32 PM with the headline "KC Council approves paid parental leave for city employees."