DeKalb County passes landmark paid family leave policy championed by Commissioner Ted Terry

DEKALB COUNTY – Today, the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners approved Super District 6 Commissioner Ted Terry’s paid family leave proposal, setting a new benchmark supporting county employees. The historic decision, officials say, positions DeKalb as a leader in family-focused workplace policies in Georgia and across the Southeast.

Effective immediately, the policy provides up to six weeks of paid leave for eligible employees to bond with a newborn, adopted, or foster child. It also expands sick leave benefits to include caregiving for grandparents and other family members, ensuring that employees can support their loved ones without compromising their financial stability.

 “Today marks a proud moment for DeKalb County as we champion equity and compassion in the workplace,” said Commissioner Terry. “This policy not only supports our employees and their families but also sets a powerful example of how local government can lead with care and purpose.”

The new ordinance is expected to enhance employee retention and recruitment while fostering healthier, more equitable communities. By addressing the needs of a diverse workforce, DeKalb County continues to set the standard for local governments across the region.

“As elected officials, our first care is for those we serve and the workforce who provides service. I am extremely proud to support Commissioner Terry’s paid leave policy and I look forward as CEO-Elect to doing even more to support our workforce,” said CEO-Elect Lorraine Cochran-Johnson.

The  Board of Commissioners’ approval follows months of advocacy and collaboration to craft a policy that meets the needs of employees and their families. 

About DeKalb County Super District 6 Commissioner Ted Terry:

In 2020, Commissioner Terry was elected to serve as the Super District 6 Commissioner of DeKalb County. His district includes half of the county with portions of South, Central, and North DeKalb, totaling approximately 350,000 residents. Known for his pragmatic approach and commitment to improving the quality of life for all residents, Terry has dedicated his political career to fostering a more inclusive, prosperous, and sustainable DeKalb County.

Before being elected as commissioner, Terry  served as tmayor of Clarkston, Georgia from 2013 to 2020, earning the nickname “The Millennial Mayor” due to his youthful energy and innovative ideas. During his tenure, Clarkston became a national leader in progressive policy, including raising the minimum wage for city employees, decriminalizing marijuana, and welcoming refugees worldwide. His leadership led to him being featured in season 2 of the Netflix series “Queer Eye.”

As DeKalb County Commissioner, Terry continues to push for progressive changes. He is deeply involved in advancing environmental sustainability, improving public infrastructure, advocating for affordable housing, and promoting economic development in the county. Terry also is a passionate advocate for social justice, working tirelessly to ensure equal opportunities for all residents, regardless of their race, religion, or socio-economic status.

Committee (ERPS) and is a member of Planning and Economic Development (PEC) and the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee (PWI). 

 Terry also serves on the National Association of County Officials (NACo) as a member of the Healthy Counties Advisory Board, International Economic Development Task Force, Large Urban County Caucus (LUCC) Member, Resilient Counties Advisory Board Member, and Environment, Energy, and Land Use (EELU) Policy Steering Committee.