We are pleased to announce the availability of a new paid Maternal Birth Leave benefit for eligible employees, effective July 1, 2026.

Maternal Birth Leave provides eligible employees who give birth to a child with three weeks (up to 120 hours) of paid leave to recuperate following childbirth. This leave is provided in accordance with Georgia law and is a separate benefit from the existing Paid Parental Leave benefit. Employees who are eligible for both must use paid Maternal Birth Leave first, during the three weeks immediately following childbirth, before using any available Paid Parental Leave or other leave option.

Benefit Highlights

• Eligible employees who give birth to a child or children are entitled to three weeks (up to 120 hours) of paid Maternal Birth Leave.
• Maternal Birth Leave must be taken during the three-week period immediately following the birth.
• Maternal Birth Leave must be taken before any available Paid Parental Leave.
• The benefit applies to the birth of one or more children in a single or multiple pregnancy.
• If eligible, Maternal Birth Leave runs concurrently with any Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) leave that may be available.

Eligibility Requirements

An employee may be eligible for paid Maternal Birth Leave if she gives birth to one or more children in a single or multiple pregnancy and, at the time of the birth:

1. Is a full-time (30 hours or more) benefits-eligible employee with the institution, and
2. Has completed at least six continuous months of employment with the institution or, if paid on an hourly basis, has worked at least 700 hours during the six months immediately preceding the date of the birth.

Employees who believe they may qualify for paid Maternal Birth Leave based on a qualifying life event date on or after July 1, 2026, should submit an Extended Absence request in OneUSG Connect.

For questions or additional information, please contact UHR at [email protected] or (706) 542-2222.