Paid Family Leave Programs

Several states are expanding paid family and medical leave (PFML) protections, with new statewide PFML programs launching in 2026. Notably, Minnesota, Maine, and Delaware will begin offering paid leave benefits in 2026, giving employees access to paid time off for their own serious health conditions, bonding with a new child, or caring for family members. These programs apply to most employers and are funded through payroll contributions.

In addition to these new programs, many states already have PFML laws in place, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Washington, and the District of Columbia. These states provide paid benefits to employees who need extended medical leave or family-related leave, supplementing the federal FMLA, which only requires unpaid leave.