Does Minnesota Paid Leave Ensure All Employees 20 Weeks Off?

Anticipated Minnesota paid leave launch nears, receiving praise and pushback

Minnesota’s new paid family and medical leave program promises paid leave for childbirth, illness and caregiving, but critics say it could damage businesses and invite abuse. Under the law, eligible workers can receive up to 12 weeks of paid family leave and 12 weeks of paid medical leave in a year, with a combined cap of 20 weeks if both are used. The program is funded through a payroll premium. For the program’s first year, the total premium i…

Does Minnesota paid leave ensure all employees 20 weeks off?

No. Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, most, but not all employees in Minnesota can access up to 20 weeks of subsidized time off each benefit year under the state’s new paid leave program, assuming they have a qualifying reason.  Federal and railroad employees, along with postal workers are not covered. Independent contractors and self-employed individuals are excluded by default but may opt in.   Workers can take up to 12 weeks each of medical or family l…

Turns Out There's a Massive Loophole in Minnesota's Paid Leave Program

Minnesota's new paid leave program raises concerns over potential fraud and loopholes.

Minnesota Paid Leave Takes Effect Jan. 1, 2026

Eligible city employees may access the leave program immediately in the new year.