Bill introduced by Assemblymember Diane Papan, D-San Mateo, could increase paid family leave access

The program, instituted in California more than 20 years ago, has been expanded over the years — extending paid leave for up to eight weeks and allocating 90% of wages back for low- to middle-income workers, effective in 2025 onward. 

Papan believes the change introduced by her bill would be a common-sense addition to the program, which is funded by mandatory payroll deductions for covered workers through state disability insurance. 

“You pay the money,” she said. “You should be able to use it when you need it, without somebody mandating you use your vacation.” 

It’s a pared-down version of a bill introduced by Papan last year. The previous version also prohibited employers from forcing workers to use their vacation time before accessing benefits and extended the program to bonding with a child you haven’t formally adopted and allowing families to apply for more than one caregiver in a home. 

While Papan said it’s disappointing to have to cut possible expansions, this version of the bill is realistic given the state government’s current fiscal situation and could pass with minimal pushback. 

“Given where we are with the budget, it would have increased burdens on funds,” she said. “We’ll live to fight another day.”

Currently, eligible workers can receive around 60% to 70% of wages earned five to 18 months before the claim start date begins. And making access to those benefits easier is an equity issue, Papan said. 

“It’s clearly a detriment to families,” she said. “I think it’s an equity issue, especially to women who disproportionately often use their benefits, because they’re more often the caretakers.” 

The bill, which is awaiting approval from the Assembly Appropriations Committee, would create greater flexibility for those dealing with emergency situations like the failing health conditions of a relative. 

“It could be a sick spouse, a sick parent. People are living longer, but might need more care,” Papan said. “Family members have to leave their jobs in order to help out with sick or aging parents … moving this two week provision allows for greater visibility and greater access.”