State Leave Laws

State leave laws establish the rules for when employees can take time off from work without losing their jobs. These laws often include provisions like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which allows eligible employees to take unpaid leave for serious health issues, family caregiving, or new parents, typically up to 12 weeks annually. States may also have additional leave rights, paid leave programs, or protections for specific circumstances. Overall, they aim to balance workers’ needs for time off with employers' operational requirements, ensuring employees can tend to personal or family health needs without jeopardizing their employment.