Governor Mike Braun is expanding paid leave benefits for Indiana state employees who become foster parents. 

During Foster Care Awareness Month, Braun announced updates to the state’s New Parent Leave policy so eligible employees can receive paid leave when a child is placed in their home through foster care.

The policy already covered childbirth and adoption. State leaders say the change gives foster families time to help children adjust, attend appointments and build stability.

The update is part of Braun’s Family First Workplace initiative, which also includes expanded parental leave, investments in affordable child care and new incentives encouraging employers to offer on-site child care services.