Indianapolis, IN, December 4, 2025
Indiana Governor Mike Braun has introduced the ‘Family First Workplace’ pilot program, enabling state employees to bring their infants to work for the first six months of their lives. The initiative aims to support working parents and promote early bonding. Implemented immediately in select state agencies, participation is a privilege and will require maintaining safety standards. If successful, the program may expand to other agencies. This initiative follows an earlier executive order enhancing paid parental leave for state employees.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Indiana Governor Mike Braun has announced the launch of the “Family First Workplace” pilot program, allowing eligible state employees to bring their infants to work during the first six months of life. This initiative aims to support working parents and promote early childhood bonding.
The program begins immediately in the Governor’s Office, the Indiana Department of Health, and the State Personnel Department. Participation is limited to full-time employees of these agencies and is considered a privilege, not a right. Agencies may remove employees from the program if operational needs or performance standards are not met. The policy includes safeguards to maintain safety and productivity, such as designated infant-care areas and requirements for cleanliness and safety. If the pilot is successful, the program may be expanded to additional agencies.
This initiative builds upon Governor Braun’s earlier executive order expanding paid parental leave for state employees, which provided paid leave for new parents, childbirth recovery, and families grieving the loss of a baby. The “Family First Workplace” program reflects Indiana’s commitment to strengthening families, supporting parents in the workforce, and promoting healthy early childhood development.
Key Features of the “Family First Workplace” Pilot Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Full-time employees of the Governor’s Office, Indiana Department of Health, and State Personnel Department. |
| Infant Age Limit | Infants up to six months old or until they become mobile, whichever comes first. |
| Program Start | Immediate implementation in the specified agencies. |
| Participation Status | Considered a privilege; agencies may remove employees if operational needs or performance standards are not met. |
| Potential Expansion | If successful, the program may be expanded to additional agencies. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the “Family First Workplace” pilot program?
The “Family First Workplace” pilot program allows eligible state employees to bring their infants to work during the first six months of life, aiming to support working parents and promote early childhood bonding.
Which agencies are participating in the pilot program?
The program begins immediately in the Governor’s Office, the Indiana Department of Health, and the State Personnel Department.
Who is eligible to participate in the program?
Full-time employees of the participating agencies are eligible to participate in the program.
Is participation in the program mandatory?
No, participation is considered a privilege, not a right. Agencies may remove employees from the program if operational needs or performance standards are not met.
Will the program be expanded to other agencies?
If the pilot is successful, the program may be expanded to additional agencies.
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
