Comprehensive guide to Minnesota leave laws — paid family and medical leave, earned sick and safe time, and all statutory entitlements.
Last updated
Minnesota has implemented a comprehensive paid family and medical leave
program and earned sick and safe time law, with robust protections for
employees taking leave.
Paid Sick Leave
Yes — Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) Law
Paid Family Leave
Yes — Minnesota Paid Family and Medical Leave
Paid Sick Leave
ProgramEarned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) Law
Accrual1 hour of earned sick and safe time for every 30 hours worked.
MaximumUp to 48 hours per year.
EligibilityAll employees, including part-time, temporary, and seasonal workers.
Use-It-or-Lose-ItNo — unused sick time carries forward.
Sick and safe time can be used for the employee's or family member's illness, preventive care, domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or public health emergency closures.
Paid Family & Medical Leave
ProgramMinnesota Paid Family and Medical Leave
DurationUp to 20 weeks for family leave, 20 weeks for medical leave, or 26 weeks combined.
Pay RateUp to 90% of wages for lower-income workers, with a maximum weekly benefit.
FundingFunded through payroll contributions (employer pays 50%, employee pays 50%). Employers with fewer than 30 employees are not required to pay the employer share.
EligibilityEmployees who have earned at least $3,700 in the base period.
Covers bonding, caring for a family member, the employee's own serious health condition, safe leave for domestic violence, and military family leave.
This page is provided for general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. Always
check the cited sources for current law before making employment decisions.