North Vernon City Council introduces new ordinance for employee paid parental leave

NORTH VERNON, Ind. – The North Vernon City Council introduced a new ordinance establishing a formal paid parental leave policy for municipal employees on Monday, August 24.

The first reading of Ordinance 1031-2026 took place during Monday evening's city council meeting, outlining updated guidelines for city workers expecting a child through birth or adoption. Under the proposed policy, employees must notify their department head or elected official within six months before the birth or placement for adoption, or before separation from employment.

North Vernon City Attorney Kayla Zimmerman presented the measure to the council, clarifying minor language adjustments on the policy's second page ahead of its initial reading. The ordinance aims to streamline parental benefits and provide clear notice expectations for municipal staff.

“Employees are responsible for notifying their department head or elected official that a birth or placement for adoption is anticipated,” the revised text states.

The ordinance was passed on its first reading and will move to the agenda for final adoption at the upcoming city council meeting on September 14.