Story perspectives

12,000 Apply for Minnesota's New Paid Leave Program

1/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

Minnesota's Paid Leave Program, launched January 1, 2026, has drawn 12,000 applications within days.
The program allows up to 20 weeks of leave per year.
The program is funded by a payroll tax, with initial costs covered by a $668 million surplus.
Critics, including the National Federation of Independent Business, warn of potential cost overruns.
State officials have completed reviews for 6,000 applications and continue to scrutinize to prevent fraud.

History

Historical Context

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) of 1993 established unpaid leave for American workers, but many still lack paid sick leave. By 2024, Minnesota's Paid Leave Program, offering up to 20 weeks of paid leave, reflects a growing trend among states, following similar initiatives in California and New York. Critics warn of potential cost overruns, raising sustainability concerns for these programs.

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Story summary

Minnesota's Paid Leave Program, launched January 1, 2026, has drawn 12,000 applications within days.
The program allows up to 20 weeks of leave per year.
The program is funded by a payroll tax, with initial costs covered by a $668 million surplus.
Critics, including the National Federation of Independent Business, warn of potential cost overruns.
State officials have completed reviews for 6,000 applications and continue to scrutinize to prevent fraud.

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