New York’s Paid Family Leave program may see changes, as legislation (A.8465) has been introduced proposing to increase family leave time from 12 to 26 weeks and offer 100% wage replacement. Phara Souffrant Forrest, D-Brooklyn, the sponsor of the legislation, asserted its potential positive impacts on family well-being, gender equality, and employee retention.

The current state program provides up to 12 weeks of job-protected, paid time off for eligible employees to bond with a new child, care for a family member with a serious health condition, or assist loved ones when a family member is deployed on active military service. It offers 67% of the employee’s average weekly wage, with a weekly maximum benefit of $1,151.16.

Forrest argues that these benefits are insufficient for new parents who need more time to bond with their children and establish a strong relationship. The 26-week proposal is also aimed at promoting gender equality by facilitating both parents to take time off to care for their families. In her view, increased paid family leave would also benefit employee retention and morale since employees would face less financial strain during their time off.

New York’s Paid Family leave is funded by employee payroll deductions. In 2024, employees are expected to contribute 0.373% of their gross wages per pay period, with a maximum annual contribution of $333.25.