The New York Workers’ Compensation Board adopted the final regulations for New York’s new Paid Family Leave Benefits Law on July 19, 2017. The new law will provide broad paid family leave benefits through the state’s existing Disability Benefits Law. 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).

The final regulations can be found on the New York Worker’s Compensation Paid Family Leave webpage located here: http://www.wcb.ny.gov/PFL/pfl-regs.jsp

Employers must determine whether and to what extent the new law's benefits overlap with company leave policies and collective bargaining agreement benefits. Employers must also develop a written PFL policy before January 1, 2018.