New York State is trying to become more family oriented by offering paid family leave. In less than two weeks, state residents can take job-protected paid time off from work to take care of a newborn child, a sick relative or for military deployment.

According to a press release from Governor Cuomo, the program will start Jan. 1 and employees can take up to 8 weeks leave. When the program is fully in place in 2021, workers will be able to take up to 12 weeks paid leave.

Paid Family Leave coverage is funded by employee payroll contributions, as stated in the press release.

Wondering if you're eligible? If you're a full-time employee with a regular schedule of 20 or more hours a week, you'll eligible for leave after 26 consecutive weeks of employment. If you're a part-time employee with a regular schedule of less than 20 hours a week, you can apply for paid leave after working 175 days for their employer.

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