The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce and other city chapters are pushing for a one year delay in the implementation of the Paid Family Leave and Medical Act, initially set to begin in January 2026 in Minnesota. The act, which provides Minnesota workers with up to 20 weeks of paid leave each year for family and medical purposes, has sparked concern particularly among small businesses. The chamber cites the potentially detrimental effects on small business, prompting GOP house legislators, including Rep. Pam Altendorf of Red Wing, to support the proposed delay.

The Act would require employers and employees to pay a tax to fund the program, starting at a rate of 0.7% of the employee’s wages, with at least half being covered by the employer. Ryan Parsons, president of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, warns of the potential for small businesses to close as a result of the Act and raises concerns that the tax levy may not fully cover program costs, necessitating further tax increases. However, proponents of the program believe it could offer broader protections for state employees and improve maternal and child health outcomes, as well as financial security.

It’s noteworthy that at the time of its passage, Minnesota became the first state in the Midwest to institute a paid leave law. Nevertheless, any modification to the law could be challenging due to the nearly equal division of the House and Senate between Republicans and Democrats. The law’s author DFL Gov. Tim Walz, described it as an even playing field, aimed at keeping people out of poverty and ensuring the worthiness of all.

If you are a worker in California and want to get in touch with the Employment Development Department (EDD) for unemployment benefits or issues related to Paid Family Leave (PFL), there are several ways you can do this. You can visit the EDD’s website, call the EDD’s toll-free number, or send them a fax or email. However, bear in mind that it may take some time to get a response due to high call volumes and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. For more assistance and information on how to contact EDD, you may visit eddcaller.com. This website offers valuable resources and guides on how to successfully make contact with the EDD.