Washington has enacted a final rule that clarifies how the seven-day waiting period impacts Washington’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program. The final rule is effective immediately.
Background:
Under state law, qualified workers in Washington are generally eligible for up to 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave per year after a seven-day waiting period to:
- Bond with a child after a child’s birth or placement; or
- Use the leave for a qualifying military purpose.
The details:
The final rule clarifies that the waiting period does not:
- Apply to medical leave taken upon the birth of a child; or
- Reduce the maximum duration of an employee’s available paid family or medical leave.
Next steps:
Washington employers should review their paid family and medical leave policies and practices to ensure compliance with the final rule.