As further evidence that innovation begins in the West, Washington State has joined California in legislating paid family leave. They are the only two states to have done so.

Effective October 2009, parents of newborn and newly adopted children will be able to take up to five weeks off work with a benefit of $250 per week, pro-rated for part-time workers. Employees must work 680 hours or more to qualify for the benefit.

Senate Bill 5659 also requires employers to hold workers’ jobs open while they are on leave, with an exception for employers with less than 25 employees.

MomsRising, a grassroots organization, was instrumental in securing passage of the bill, sending over 14,000 letters to elected officials. The power of one mom and one baby at a time was reflected in the Power of ONEsie campaign. For more information about the Family Leave Coalition, contact Marilyn Watkins.