New York’s Paid Family Leave Program is scheduled to go into effect on January 1, 2018. With such big changes, it is important for families to make themselves aware of the new policy and what they are able to do under it. Nearly all employees who work for private employers in New York State will be eligible for Paid Family Leave. However, it is important to note that public employers may choose to offer Paid Family Leave but it is not required.

The Paid Family Leave program will allow employees to take paid time off without worrying that they will be fired so they can:

  • bond with a new child after a birth or adoption
  • take care of a close relative who is facing a serious health condition including an illness, injury, physical or mental impairment that requires inpatient care, hospice, continuing treatment or continuing supervision
  • aid loved ones when a spouse, partner, child, or parent is on an active military deployment or has been notified that they will be deploying abroad soon

It is important to note that employees will pay for this benefit taken out of their weekly wages. 0.126% of your weekly wage will be deducted and is capped at $1,305.92. All full-time employees who work more than 20 hours a week and have worked for 26 consecutive weeks are eligible. Part-time employees who work less than 20 hours a week but have worked 175 days (does not have to be consecutive) are eligible as well.

If you require experienced legal representation for any of your divorce and family law matters, contact the Law Offices of Mark S. Paige, P.C. today to schedule a consultation.