The District of Columbia has enacted an ordinance expanding a program offering paid parental, family, and medical leave benefits to eligible employees. The changes are effective October 1, 2021.
Background:
In 2016, the District of Columbia enacted a paid family leave program funded by a tax paid by employers. Employees are eligible for benefits under the program as long as they spend at least 50 percent of their time physically working in the District of Columbia. Contributions to the program started in July 2019, and employees started receiving benefits July 2020. Under the existing program, eligible employees may receive:
- Up to eight workweeks of paid parental leave benefits within a 52-workweek period for bonding associated with:
- Up to six workweeks of paid family leave benefits within a 52-workweek period to provide care or companionship to a family member with a serious health condition, as defined by the Ordinance.
- Up to two workweeks of paid medical leave benefits within a 52-workweek period for their own serious health condition.
Under the program, there has generally been a one-week waiting before employees may start receiving benefits. Employers must also post a notice about the program in the workplace and inform their employees about the program at the time upon hiring, annually, and when paid family leave is needed.
Changes Effective October 1, 2021:
From October 1, 2021 through October 1, 2022:
- The maximum duration of paid medical leave benefits that eligible employees may receive is increased from two to six workweeks; and
- Employees may receive up to two workweeks of paid leave benefits for prenatal medical care.
From October 1, 2021 and up to one year after the COVID-19 public health emergency, the one-week waiting period before benefits start is waived.
Compliance Recommendations:
Covered employers should review policies and practices to ensure they reflect the amended program. Employers should also ensure that they post an updated notice about the program. If/when the Department of Employment Services publishes an updated notice, it will be available on its website here. Please contact your dedicated service professional with any questions.