Minnesota workers gain new benefit with paid family leave

MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota is rolling out paid leave starting Jan. 1.

Twelve other states already have or will soon implement paid leave programs, and many countries around the world have offered the benefit for decades.

Paid leave is available to workers who are having a child, recovering from a serious illness or caring for a loved one.

"While there's great benefits, there also comes great challenges," said Cale Dunwoody, vice president of public policy for the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo Chamber.

The paid family leave benefit in Minnesota begins in the new year. Workers will be eligible for up to 12 weeks of medical or paid family leave, and up to 20 weeks total between the two.

"Whether you're part time, full time, seasonal worker, you are eligible for this program," Dunwoody said.

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