Massachusetts Statewide Rule
Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave Statewide
Key Facts
- Weeks Paid Family
- Up to 12 weeks paid family leave
- Weeks Paid Medical
- Up to 20 weeks paid medical leave
- Hours Earned Sick
- 40 hours earned sick time annually
- PFML Funded Payroll
- PFML funded by payroll contribution
- Triple Damages Retaliation
- Triple damages for retaliation
Summary
Massachusetts provides paid family and medical leave through the PFML program under MGL Chapter 175M, plus paid sick time under the Earned Sick Time Law for most employees.
(4) All employees employed by an employer of eleven or more employees shall be entitled to earn and use up to 40 hours of earned paid sick time from that employer as provided in subsection (d) in a calendar year. In determining the number of employees who are employed by an employer for compensation, all employees performing work for compensation on a full-time, part-time or temporary basis shall be counted.
Full Breakdown
Massachusetts offers two main paid leave systems. The Earned Sick Time Law under MGL Chapter 149 Section 148C grants employees up to 40 hours of sick leave annually, with paid time required for employers with 11 or more workers. Paid Family and Medical Leave under MGL Chapter 175M provides up to 12 weeks of family leave and 20 weeks of medical leave with partial wage replacement, funded by employer-employee payroll contributions. The state generally preempts cities from creating different leave systems for private employers, though local enhancements for municipal employees are common.
Violations & Penalties
Retaliation or denial of statutory leave subjects employers to triple damages, attorney fees, and civil penalties under MGL Chapter 149 wage enforcement provisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Massachusetts PFML benefits?
Does Massachusetts require paid sick leave?
Sources
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