Waltz signs into law paid family and medical leave

Governor Tim Waltz signed the Paid Family and Medical Leave Act into law Thursday afternoon.

Waltz was joined by Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, Speaker of the House Melissa Hortman, Senate Majority Leader Kari Djezić and other supporters of the bill.

Related: Paid family leave, medical leave awaits Waltz’s signature in Congress

The bill would give Minnesota workers up to 12 weeks of paid leave for serious medical conditions, pregnancy, or to care for a family member. Individuals may request up to 20 weeks of paid leave per year.

The bill passed the House of Representatives on May 17, 68-62, with all Republicans voting against it. On May 18, the Senate followed suit, approving the bill 34-32.

Related: Minnesota House Passes Paid Family Leave, Medical Leave Bill

Gov. Tim Waltz speaking at the Paid Family Leave and Medical Leave Bill signing ceremony May 25, 2023 (KSTP-TV)

Related: Minnesota Senate Passes Paid Family Leave and Medical Leave Bill

Republicans oppose the move, arguing it would impose new tax burdens on employers and that many workplaces already offer their own extended paid leave.

The program will be funded through a 0.7% payroll tax on employers participating in both Family Benefits and Medical Benefits and will be disbursed through a new division of the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. A one-time injection of $668 million would keep the program on track until a payroll tax makes it sustainable over the long term.

Use KSTP’s Legislative Tracker to see other notable bills passed and signed into law during the session.