Maine’s new paid family and medical leave program is open for applications today — for time off to be taken starting May 1.
The program provides employees up to 12 weeks of benefits for major life events, including attending to a personal or family member’s serious health condition, the arrival of a new child, dealing with the transition of a family member’s impending military deployment, or to stay safe, or help a family member stay safe after abuse or violence.
Benefits are flexible and portable, but to be eligible, workers must have earned at least six times the state average weekly wage over a base period. The average weekly wage in 2025 was $1,199.
LD 1964 was signed into law in 2023 and covers all of Maine’s 680,000 workers, including those who are self-employed, full- or part-time, at up to 90% of their compensation rate.
The legislature allocated a one-time appropriation of $25 million to establish the program; going forward, it’s being funded primarily by payroll taxes.
Starting in January 2025, employers with 15 or more staff have been required to contribute 1% of employee wages, and they can deduct up to half of that from paychecks.
Companies with fewer than 15 employees must contribute 0.5% of total wages, and employers can withhold the full amount from workers’ paychecks.
Self-employed workers can elect coverage by submitting a request through the paid leave contributions website. The application and approval process will be administered by Aflac on behalf of the state.
“This program represents a major step forward for Maine’s workers, families, and businesses,” said Laura Fortman, commissioner of the Maine Department of Labor.
“Paid Family and Medical Leave gives people time to care for themselves and their loved ones with some financial support, reducing stress and making leave more possible. When families are supported, workplaces and communities across Maine are stronger.”
