Gov. Walz signed paid family and medical leave into law. How will it work?

ST. PAUL, Minn. --  A new state law means nearly all Minnesota workers will have paid medical and family care leave.

With such big changes in the rules, we know that you have a lot of questions. Esme Murphy got the answers to some of your key questions.

When does this bill become effective? 

The paid family and medical leave bill will go into effort on January 1, 2026. That's so the state can get the program set up and coordinate with workers and employers.

Who is covered under the bill?

The bill covers nearly all private and governmental workers both full-time and part-time. 

What does this bill provide? 

The bill caps benefits at 20 weeks in a single year, and up to 12 weeks for a single qualifying event. What's covered is leave for a serious medical condition, family leave to care for a loved one-including bonding with a newborn baby-or if you need to take some time to care for yourself if you're a victim of domestic violence. It could also cover needs arising from a military deployment overseas.

How much will I be paid? 

The lowest earners will get 90% of their weekly salary. The highest earners will get about 55% of their weekly salary. 

How much will I pay for it? 

The bill will initially be paid for from the state's general fund and later, withdrawals from your paycheck. Starting in January of 2026, workers that earn about $50,000 a year will pay just about $4.33 a week. Workers that earn $100,000 a year will pay about $8.65 a week.

Who would oversee and pay my benefits?

The State of Minnesota will oversee and pay benefits through a new state insurance program.

How will this affect private companies?

Private companies that already offer paid leave must meet the standards for benefits outlined in this bill. They can avoid the payroll tax increase by paying a fee to opt out of the state-run program.