DC operates a fully employer-funded Universal Paid Family Leave program providing up to 12 weeks of partially-paid leave for parental, family-care, medical, and prenatal needs, administered through DOES.
Under the Universal Paid Family Leave Act, codified at DC Code 32-541.01 et seq., covered employers pay a quarterly payroll tax (currently 0.26%) into a District trust fund. Eligible private-sector workers receive up to 12 weeks of parental leave, 12 weeks of family or medical leave, and 2 weeks of prenatal leave per benefit year. Benefits replace up to 90% of wages capped at a weekly maximum. DOES processes claims, and job protection runs concurrent with FMLA where applicable. Employers must post notices, distribute claim information, and remit the payroll contribution.
Failure to register, remit contributions, or notify employees triggers DOES penalties, back contributions plus interest, and civil enforcement actions through the DC Attorney General.
Washington, DC
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Washington, DC
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See how Washington's paid leave preemption rules stack up against other locations.
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