Paid Family and Medical Leave

A Paid Family and Medical Leave policy explains how eligible employees can take state-administered, wage-replacement leave for bonding with a new child, caring for a family member, addressing their own serious health condition, and certain military or safety-related needs, including how payroll contributions, application steps, job protection, and coordination with FMLA work in various jurisdictions such as Colorado, New Jersey, Delaware, Maine, and Minnesota.

How to Write a Paid Family and Medical Leave Policy

• Start with "why" and introduce the concept.
• Define who's eligible to use the program.
• List the qualifying reasons employees can take paid family and medical leave.
• Explain how the program is funded through payroll deductions or premiums.
• Summarize the benefit structure, including wage replacement and available leave types.
• Describe how employees apply for benefits through the state program and what documentation may be required.
• Explain job protection and return-to-work rights tied to approved leave.
• Address benefits continuation during leave, including health coverage and premium payments.
• Clarify how this leave coordinates with other leave laws and policies, including running concurrently where applicable.
• State whether employees may supplement state benefits with available paid time off.
• Explain how accrual of seniority and other benefits is treated during leave.
• Include a non-interference and anti-retaliation commitment and a path for raising concerns or appealing determinations.

For advice on writing a Paid Family and Medical Leave policy in a specific jurisdiction, see below.