Evolving Paid Leave Laws: Key State Updates Employers Can’t Miss

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Paid leave laws are evolving fast—and employers need to keep up. While federal law doesn’t mandate paid sick or family leave, nearly 20 U.S. states now require some form of paid time off for health or caregiving needs.

What’s new with paid leave laws?

  • Alaska: As of July 1, employers must offer up to 56 hours of paid sick leave annually.
  • Michigan: Workers now receive up to 72 hours of paid sick time.
  • Maine: Payroll contributions for paid family & medical leave began this year; benefits start May 2026.
  • Minnesota: Paid leave program set for January 2026.
  • Maryland: Program delayed again, benefits now start 2028.

Some states, like Illinois, Maine, and Nevada, go even further, granting leave for any reason. With regulations shifting rapidly, employers must ensure leave policies stay compliant across jurisdictions, before enforcement begins. Need help navigating the patchwork of paid leave laws? ConnectBridge has you covered. To learn more, read the full article here: Which states require employers to provide paid leave?

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