State leave policies are evolving rapidly, with new programs, changing benefit structures, and growing attention to how leave intersects with workforce participation, health, and employer capacity. As more states consider family and medical leave policies, policymakers face important questions about program design, implementation, and long-term sustainability.
The CSG West Health & Human Services Committee will host a virtual Legislative Exchange, The Future of Leave Policy: Emerging Priorities and Policies Shaping States, on Monday, September 29, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. PT.
Join Bryon Bass, CEO of the Disability Management Employer Coalition (DMEC), for a look at the trends shaping leave policy across the country and how they are impacting employers in western states. The discussion will highlight four emerging policy areas:
- Coordinating leave policies across state lines
- Preparing for the growing use of artificial intelligence in leave administration
- Strengthening mental health supports within leave frameworks
- Developing stay-at-work and return-to-work strategies that keep workers connected to the workforce
Drawing on DMEC’s network of more than 23,000 accommodation and leave management professionals representing more than 1,700 organizations, Bass will share practical, field-tested perspectives to help policymakers think through the next generation of leave policy.
Who?
Bryon Bass joined DMEC in 2023. He brings more than 20 years of experience in the absence and disability management industry. He previously served as senior vice president and workforce absence and disability practice leader for Sedgwick, where he oversaw disability and absence management product strategy, innovation, standards and compliance, and product-line best practices. He has also held a variety of absence and disability management roles for employers across a broad range of industries. Bass became CEO of DMEC in 2024 and provides strategic executive leadership for the association and oversees all association activities.
When?
Tuesday, September 29, 2026
10:00 to 11:00 a.m. PT
Please register below to secure your seat and receive programming updates.