So why did these states snag the top ten spots? A further look into the report shows that Oregon, the number one state, has one of the newest paid family leave policies in the country. The mandatory policy went into effect in January 2023 and offers 12 weeks of paid leave, earning 100 percent of an individual’s average weekly wage up to 65 percent of the state’s average weekly wage of $1,224.82.
In second place, Washington workers receive similar benefits to Oregon, including mandatory employer participation and up to 12 weeks of paid time off, but income benefits are slightly reduced, with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,327. Washington state law also excludes job protections, though most workers are eligible for federal protections and unpaid time off through theRounding out the top three, New York offers up to 12 weeks and job protections alongside Oregon but offers less weekly pay.
It’s no secret that a lot more needs to be done to help ease the burden on working parents, but for some states, this is a start. To view the full report, visit