Update June 4, 2020: The DFML announced on June 3, 2020 that they will not hold in-person meetings to discuss the revised proposed regulations, but are enabling you to register for the virtual hearing. You can also comment prior to the meeting in the written testimony on the regulations.
As we’re getting closer to Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) becoming effective January 2021, the Massachusetts Department of Family and Medical Leave (DFML) announced an updated edition of its proposed regulations, which were initially released in January 2019 for the PFML program, and called for informal comments on May 11, 2020. A public hearing on the proposed amendments will be held by the DFML on June 11, 2020 at 10:00AM via Webex to finalize the regulations surrounding the procedures, practices, and policies in the administration of PFML.
Below is a quick summary of some of the key changes.
There were a number of new definitions added such as:
- Accrued Paid Leave
- Active Duty
- Application for Benefits
- Good Cause
- Job-Protected Leave
- Private Plan Administrator
Other areas affected by the updated proposed regulations include:
- opt-in requirements for self-employed individuals;
- requirements when filing an Application for Exemption due to switching to an Approved Private Plan
- how PFML coordinates with other benefits in form of offsets and reductions
- how it impacts employer-provided benefits
- intermittent leave
Download the proposed regulations here to read the full details.
The DFML will be announcing whether they will hold in-person meetings in Boston and in Springfield to discuss the revised proposed regulations shortly.
Stay tuned for more information on MA PFML and other short-term disability and paid leave topics by subscribing to our updates..
This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal counsel. Please consult with an appropriate professional for legal and compliance advice. Any Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) is as of the blog post’s date stamp; it is based on the applicable statutes and regulation, and may change as regulations evolve or the Commonwealth of Massachusetts issues guidance regarding PFML regulations.