Bangkok: The Senate has unanimously passed a significant labor protection bill that includes a provision for increasing maternity leave to 120 days. The bill also introduces additional rights for spouses, allowing them to take leave to care for their children without any wage deduction.
According to Thai News Agency, the Senate meeting was chaired by Mr. Boonsong Noisophon, Second Vice President of the Senate. The draft Labor Protection Act passed with a unanimous vote of 125, with 5 members abstaining, after a thorough section-by-section review. The House of Representatives' consideration was approved, highlighting key changes such as extending maternity leave for female employees to a maximum of 120 days. Furthermore, mothers can take an additional 15 days of leave if their child is ill or faces complications, abnormalities, or disabilities, with a provision of receiving 50% of their wages on working days.
In a move to support family responsibilities, the bill grants employees the right to take leave to assist their spouse who has given birth for up to 15 days. This leave can be taken either before or within 90 days of the child's birth, ensuring that employees receive their full wages during this period, not exceeding 15 days. Employers are mandated to pay women on maternity leave their full wages for up to 60 days, or as outlined in the Royal Decree.
The next step involves the Senate Secretariat proceeding with the legal process to enact the bill into law. According to the draft, the legislation will go into effect 30 days after its publication in the Royal Gazette.