Minnesota’s new paid leave program kicks in next year, but folks who added children to their household this year can start the process in receiving the benefits.
The application process begins on Wednesday, Dec. 3, five weeks after Mary’s Deli founder Martha Polochek gave birth to Nelle.
Both were there in northeast Minneapolis, joining Governor Walz in detailing the new program.
“Because of this paid family leave, I’m going to be looking forward to some time with her,” said Martha, with Nelle making happy baby sounds as if she’s also looking forward to that bonding time.
“I’ve got 25 staff members at any given time and now we’ve got our 26th staff member.”
Martha started the deli in 2020 and moved into the building three years ago.
Minnesota’s new paid leave program starts on the first of the new year. People can apply for up to 12 weeks of leave with partial pay to recover from a medical condition or care for a family member, including children.
The program is funded by an additional payroll tax of .88 percent each pay period.
Walz was critical of Republican legislators who did not support the plan over concerns of potential fraud.
“How disrespectful to people to assume all Minnesotans are scamming,” Walz said.