Article Summary –
The United States lacks a national paid family and medical leave program, prompting several states to implement their own programs that provide benefits to families and the economy. States like Minnesota, Colorado, and Virginia, among others, have been recognized for their comprehensive leave programs, which cover all workers, include various eligible uses for leave, and allow for more than 12 weeks of benefits. The Century Foundation’s report emphasizes the importance of such programs for family health and economic stability, while also highlighting the advantages for businesses, such as improved employee retention and productivity.
The United States is among the few countries lacking a national paid family and medical leave program. As a result, some states are stepping in with their own programs, which supporters claim benefit both families and the economy.
The Century Foundation, a progressive think tank, evaluated state paid family leave programs in its report “Care Matters: A 2026 Report on Care Affordability and Access.”
Minnesota, Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Oregon, and Virginia excelled, receiving top marks for comprehensive worker coverage, inclusive family definitions, broad eligible leave uses, and offering over 12 weeks of benefits.
“This leave is crucial for bonding with newborns and for addressing serious health conditions,” explains the Century Foundation. “It’s essential for family well-being and economic security during times when work is impossible due to health needs.”
Fourteen states and Washington, D.C., offer paid family leave, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center. California, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Washington, Delaware, and Massachusetts are also part of this group. Recently, Virginia passed legislation, as Gov. Abigail Spanberger signed a bill into law in May.
Federally, the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 provides 12 weeks of unpaid leave, yet no federal law mandates paid leave.
Virginia is notable as the South’s first state to implement paid leave. Spanberger’s office reported that the program will cover over three million workers.
“This groundbreaking law ensures Virginians can care for family, recover from illness, and spend time with newborns while keeping their paychecks,” Spanberger stated. “No one should choose between family and bills, or deplete savings due to illness.”
Spanberger highlighted how the law aids small and medium-sized businesses in offering previously unaffordable benefits. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a nonpartisan group, emphasized business benefits in a 2021 report.
“Paid leave boosts business by enhancing retention, productivity, and labor participation,” noted the CBPP.
The Century Foundation also reviewed state policies on paid sick days and safe days. Colorado, Minnesota, New Mexico, California, and Michigan topped the list in offering these benefits.
“It should be standard for individuals to take time off for illness or appointments without financial worry,” stated the Century Foundation.
In total, 18 states have paid sick day laws. Other states include Alaska, Arizona, Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington, with D.C. also enforcing such a law.
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