Paid leave is coming to Minnesota! Starting Jan. 1, 2026, this program will provide payments and job protection when Minnesotans need time off to care for themselves or their loved ones.

New and expecting parents, including those who welcomed a child in 2025, can receive up to 12 weeks of bonding leave (a type of paid leave) within the first 12 months of welcoming a child into their home through birth, adoption, or foster placement. Medical leave (another type of paid leave) may also be available for birthing parents who need time to recover from pregnancy or birth.

On Thursday, Dec. 4, from noon to 1 p.m., the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development will host a webinar to discuss the program, eligibility criteria, answer questions, and guide new and expecting parents through the application process for taking leave in 2026.