[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today visited Marty’s Deli to discuss Minnesota’s Paid Leave program, one month out from the start of the program. Beginning tomorrow, December 3, parents who welcomed a child in 2025 can apply for Paid Leave, an important step as the full program prepares to launch statewide on January 1, 2026. Photos from the event are available online here.

“Quality of life is something we take seriously in Minnesota,” said Governor Walz. “This has long been one of the best places to live, but too many parents and caregivers have faced an impossible choice between their job and their family. Paid Leave gives Minnesotans the security to welcome a child or care for a loved one without risking their income — a smart, effective policy that strengthens families, improves retention, and supports small businesses.”

“Paid Leave programs not only make time for care, but also improve retention, performance and morale on the job,” said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. “Minnesota employers have played a pivotal role in building this program and will be essential to its success. We are here to help if employers need resources, support, or answers as they bring this important new benefit to their workforce.”

The Paid Leave law, passed in 2023 and signed by Governor Walz, creates a statewide paid family and medical leave program starting January 1, 2026, providing eligible workers paid, job-protected time off for major life events, including bonding with a new child or caring for an ill family member. Parents who welcomed a child in 2025 can take up to 12 weeks of bonding leave in 2026, and early applications will help families and employers prepare. About 5,000 new parents are expected to apply in December.

Today’s visit underscored the program’s importance for small employers. Many small businesses have previously lacked the financial capacity to offer Paid Leave, leaving owners and employees to choose between income and caregiving. Under the law, small employers will pay reduced premium rates and may be eligible for grants to help cover staffing costs when an employee is out on leave.

“When I moved back here five years ago, a big part of what drew me home to Minnesota was my family and the culture of care and community here,” said Martha Polacek, owner of Marty’s Deli. “As a small business owner, I couldn’t afford a benefit like this on my own. I am so grateful to be able to take Paid Leave in these irreplaceable first months with my newborn, and to be able to offer the same support to my team when they need it.”

Those expecting a child in 2026, or planning to take leave for other reasons, can apply when Paid Leave fully launches in January. Up to 20,000 Minnesotans are expected to apply in December and January as the program begins.

Last month, Paid Leave tested the system with hundreds of applicants. This early test allowed the program to assess and improve systems before expanding to a larger group, ensuring the best possible experience for individuals and employers when the program launches.

Learn more, explore resources, and apply at paidleave.mn.gov.