Ohio Paid Family Leave Laws

As of January 3, 2025, Ohio does not have a state-mandated Paid Family Leave (PFL) program for private-sector employees. However, specific provisions exist for state employees regarding paid parental leave.

What is Paid Family Leave?

Paid Family Leave (PFL) allows employees to take compensated time off from work to address significant family needs, such as bonding with a new child or caring for a seriously ill family member. PFL supports employees in balancing work responsibilities with essential family obligations without financial hardship.

Does Ohio Have Paid Family Leave Laws That Differ from Federal Family Leave Laws?

Ohio does not have a state-mandated PFL program for private-sector employees that differs from federal laws. The federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons. However, Ohio has implemented a Paid Parental Leave Policy for state employees, offering paid leave for qualifying parental events.

What Counts as a Qualifying Event for Paid Family Leave in Ohio?

For state employees eligible under Ohio’s Paid Parental Leave Policy, qualifying events include:

• Birth of a Child: Leave granted to recover from childbirth and to bond with and care for the newborn.
• Adoption of a Child: Leave provided for the adoption of a child under the age of 18.

Are There Requirements to be Eligible for Paid Family Leave in Ohio?

Eligibility criteria for state employees under the Paid Parental Leave Policy include:

• Employment Status: Permanent full-time and permanent part-time state employees who work 30 or more hours per week.
• Minimum Service Period: Employees must have completed at least 12 months of continuous state service prior to the birth or adoption of a child.

Is There a Minimum Amount of Paid Family Leave Time Required in Ohio?

For eligible state employees, the Paid Parental Leave Policy provides up to six weeks (240 hours) of paid leave at 70% of the employee’s regular rate of pay following the birth or adoption of a child. Employees may use accrued leave balances to supplement the remaining 30% to receive full pay during the leave period.

Is There a Minimum Amount of Maternity Leave Time Required in Ohio?

While there is no mandated minimum duration for maternity leave in the private sector, eligible state employees who give birth are entitled to up to six weeks of paid parental leave at 70% of their regular rate of pay. Employees may use accrued leave to supplement the remaining 30% to receive full pay during the leave period.

Is Paternity Leave Required by Law in Ohio?

There is no state-mandated paternity leave requirement for private-sector employees in Ohio. However, eligible state employees who become fathers through birth or adoption are entitled to up to six weeks of paid parental leave at 70% of their regular rate of pay. They may use accrued leave to supplement the remaining 30% to receive full pay during the leave period.

Who Pays for Paid Family Leave in Ohio?

The Paid Parental Leave for state employees is funded by the state government. Private employers in Ohio are not required by state law to provide paid family leave, and any such benefits would be at the employer’s discretion.

Conclusion

While Ohio does not have a comprehensive Paid Family Leave program for all employees, the state has implemented a Paid Parental Leave Policy for eligible state employees, providing paid leave for qualifying parental events. Private-sector employees in Ohio must rely on federal provisions under the FMLA for unpaid, job-protected leave. Employers and employees should familiarize themselves with both federal and state policies to understand their rights and responsibilities regarding family and medical leave.