With deadlines looming, thousands of businesses are filing for exemptions to the state’s family and medical leave program.
More than 3,400 businesses filed for exemptions from the new state-run family and medical leave program by the end of last year, seeking to offer private alternatives to the state-run program instead.
In order to be approved for an exemption to the state program, employers must demonstrate that they offer benefits equal or greater to those offered under the state plan. Additionally, the private alternative cannot cost workers more than they would have to contribute to the state plan.
Private plans have the potential to save employers significant amounts of money due to the fact that many private options don’t require any payments until 2021, while the state program requires payment beginning in October.
The state’s new leave laws require up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave for new parents, those caring for seriously ill family members, and needs stemming from a family member’s active-duty military service. Additionally, the law authorizes up to 20 weeks of leave for a worker’s own illness or injury.
