Paid Family And Medical Leave Passes Minnesota House, Heads To Senate

By Max Nesterak, Minnesota Reformer:

Minnesota workers would be able to take up to 12 weeks of paid family leave and 12 weeks of medical leave under a closely watched bill that passed the House on a largely party-line vote on Tuesday.

The bill (HF2) would bring Minnesota in line with all high-wealth nations and 11 other states that ensure workers have paid time off to care for newborns, help sick family members or recover from serious illnesses or injuries.

“At the heart of this bill is a recognition of our universal humanity,” said Rep. Ruth Richardson, DFL-Mendota Heights, and author of the bill. “A recognition that at some point in our lives, we or our loved ones are going to need time to bond, to heal, recover or navigate providing care for a loved one.”

The benefit would be available to workers beginning in July 2025 and would be funded through payroll taxes on employers and workers. It would be administered through the state’s Department of Employment and Economic Development, like unemployment insurance.

Read more at Minnesota Reformer