Overview. The Workers’ Compensation Board adopted the final regulations (published May 16, 2017), for New York’s new Paid Family Leave Benefits Law (PFL) on July 19, 2017. In addition to paid benefits, eligible employees have the right to a leave of absence and guaranteed reinstatement even if they are not protected by the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
Effective Date. As previously reported, employees can begin to exercise their right to benefits on January 1, 2018. Employers, however, may begin payroll deductions to offset insurance premiums any time after July 1, 2017.
Details. Detailed information on the final regulations and can be found on the New York Worker’s Compensation Paid Family Leave webpage.
Call to Action. ADP previously provided a “checklist” for employers to consider along with a set of Frequently Asked Questions that will guide employers in their response to this new law.
To summarize and repeat some key actions, employers should determine whether and/or to what extent the PFL benefits overlap with company leave policies and/or collective bargaining agreement benefits, if any. Employers must insure that a written PFL policy is adopted before January 1, 2018, and that it informs employees that overlapping leaves under FMLA or company policy will be run concurrently whenever possible. Finally, employers should begin to train HR, benefits employees, or others responsible for administering the PFL benefit on employee rights and obligations under PFL.
Please contact your Relationship Manager or Service Team with any questions. You can also download the Sample Wavier below.