Stirpe: Paid family leave program begins Jan. 1

There’s nothing more important than family. We’d put our lives on hold to ensure that we’re there for our loved ones in their time of need. While this selflessness should be applauded, it has unfortunately been met with a heavy price tag for many New Yorkers.

Luckily, that will change on Jan. 1 with the implementation of the state’s new paid family leave program, allowing workers to care for their loved ones when they need it most without risking their jobs or financial security.

I’ve long supported paid family leave because it’s unfair and wrong to punish workers for caring for a loved one or bonding with their newborn child. Research has shown that when mothers take paid leave, their children’s health and development benefits.[1]

This measure is a victory not only for hardworking New York families, but also for the state’s economy. Access to paid leave allows workers to stay in jobs where they are a good fit and have the needed skills, boosting businesses.[2]

New York’s program will be phased in over a four-year period, giving employers enough time to adjust and implement it. In 2018, workers will be eligible for eight weeks of job-protected paid leave at 50 percent of their average weekly wage up to 50 percent of the statewide average weekly wage. In 2019, it will increase to 10 weeks of leave at 55 percent of the worker’s average weekly wage up to 55 percent of the statewide average weekly wage. It increases to 60 percent of the worker’s average weekly wage up to 60 percent of the statewide average weekly wage in 2020 before rising to 12 weeks of leave in 2021 at 67 percent of the worker’s average weekly wage up to 67 percent of the statewide average weekly wage.

Public employers may also opt into the program. Employees are eligible after working at least 20 hours per week for 26 weeks, or less than 20 hours per week for 175 days. With its implementation, New York becomes one of only five states, as well as the District of Columbia, to require a paid family leave benefit.[3] This robust new program is a major step forward from the federal Family and Medical Leave Act, which only offers unpaid leave and covers just 60 percent of the workforce.[4]

The paid family leave initiative is critical in building a stronger New York state. Supporting working families and ensuring equal opportunities for everyone is something I work toward every day as your assemblyman.

If you would like additional information about the state’s paid family leave program and how it could affect you, call the Paid Family Leave Helpline at 844-337-6303.

As always, I’m here to help. If you have any questions, please contact my office at StirpeA@nyassembly.gov or 315-452-1115.