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Dear Neighbor,

Minnesota’s Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program is scheduled to launch this January, and I want to share some information that may be helpful preparing for the rollout.

Here we go:

*Summary of PFML*

PFML is a new state-run program created by the former trifecta that starts in January 2026 and will impact every employer in Minnesota. It’s funded through a payroll tax that’s shared by employers and employees. Under this mandate, employers must allow workers to take up to 12 weeks of family leave, 12 weeks of medical leave, and no more than 20 weeks total in a year. The program is paid for by a 0.88% payroll tax, split evenly between employers and employees, though small businesses with fewer than 30 employees, and with average wages below 150% of the statewide weekly average, will pay a reduced rate of 0.22%.

*Info for employers*

Employers must prepare for several new requirements before PFML begins. For more information on those steps and the entire program, visit DEED's Employers Page [ [link removed] ]. Also, a helpful guide put together by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce  is available here [ [link removed] ].

*Information for employees *

Most Minnesota workers will qualify for PFML when it gets up and running. If you’ve earned at least about $3,900 in the past year and do most of your work in Minnesota, you likely qualify. Full-time, part-time, and seasonal work all count.

PFML replaces part of your wages, with lower earners receiving a higher percentage. Payments are capped at the state’s average weekly wage. If you’ve been in your job for at least 90 days, your position and benefits are protected while you are on PFML.

Workers can apply for leave up to 60 days before it starts. You’ll need documentation from a doctor or legal paperwork for things like adoption or foster placement.

*Information for self-employed workers*

Freelancers, contractors, and others can opt in by paying premiums, which makes them eligible for the same benefits. More employee information is at DEED Employee Resources [ [link removed] ].

*Preparing for lift-off*

I am a small-business person and am very aware of how difficult new state mandates can be for the bottom line. Minnesota’s PFML program is one of the most expansive in the country and it will present serious challenges. I will continue working for changes that make the program more affordable and provide additional flexibility. For now, I encourage both businesses and employees to prepare for what’s coming so there are no surprises when the program gets off the ground in January.

*Side note on fraud*

The House Fraud Prevention and State Oversight Policy Committee this week held a hearing with representatives from DEED to discuss ways of preventing potential fraud in PFML. This subject should be taken seriously, especially given the string of fraud reports that continue surfacing in our state. It is good this hearing took place on the front end to evaluate PFML’s fraud risks before it is launched. House Republicans pointed out numerous flaws with the law that remain unaddressed, including how eligibility of providers will be verified, how intermittent leave will be monitored, and how many caregivers can provide care for the same person for the same medical situation. Stay tuned.

*Local meetings*

It was great visiting the St. Cloud VA recently. Among those I talked with were a friend and her veteran grandfather...

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...and veterans housing advocates.

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I also enjoyed stopping by the rotary program at Kennedy school, where Warm Hands and Heads for the kindergartners were on full display.

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*Budget forecast*

In the coming weeks, we will receive a new, full economic forecast for Minnesota. Minnesota Management and Budget reports that the state’s general fund revenue last month came in $26 million below projections. Total revenue is now $116 million below the February 2025 forecast during the first four years of this fiscal year (July through October).

We’ll see how things look in the full report, but unchecked spending and massive new government programs – such as PFML – have turned an $18 billion surplus into a potentially rocky outlook.

I will continue advocating for common-sense budgeting and restoring balance to our state’s finances so we can stabilize Minnesota for the long haul.

Please Contact Me

It’s an honor and privilege to work for you at the Capitol. Don’t hesitate to contact my office at any time this session to share your thoughts, concerns or ideas. You can call me at 651-296-6316, or email me at [email protected]. I am here to serve you!

Bernie

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State Rep. Bernie Perryman
2nd Floor, Centennial Office Building
658 Cedar St., St. Paul, MN 55155          [email protected]
651.296.6316







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