Paternity Leave in Washington D.C.
Complete guide to paternity leave requirements, employee rights, and employer obligations in Washington D.C..
Washington D.C. Paternity Leave Requirements
Paid Family Leave Available
Washington D.C. has a paid family leave program: DC Paid Family Leave. Duration: up to 12 weeks. Wage replacement: 90% of wages (up to cap). Universal Paid Leave Act provides 8 weeks parental, 6 weeks family, 2 weeks medical.
Federal Requirements
FMLA provides 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for eligible employees to bond with a new child (birth, adoption, or foster care). This applies equally to fathers and non-birthing parents.
About Paternity Leave
Paternity leave is time off from work for fathers and non-birthing parents to bond with a new child after birth, adoption, or foster placement. While traditionally shorter than maternity leave, there is a growing trend toward equal parental leave policies. FMLA covers paternity leave the same as maternity leave for bonding purposes.
Typical Duration
1-12 weeks, with growing trend toward 4-8 weeks
Paid vs Unpaid
Federally unpaid (FMLA). Paid in states with paid family leave. Increasing number of employers offer paid paternity leave.
Employee Rights
- ✓Same FMLA rights as birthing parents for bonding
- ✓Cannot be denied leave or retaliated against based on gender
- ✓Job protection during leave
- ✓Continuation of health benefits
Employer Obligations
- •Provide equal FMLA leave regardless of gender
- •Not discriminate against fathers seeking parental leave
- •Maintain health insurance during leave
- •Restore to same or equivalent position
Washington D.C. Key Compliance Points
- !Provide accrued sick and safe leave
- !Contribute to DC Paid Family Leave
- !DC FMLA for 20+ employee employers
- !Provide up to 2 hours paid voting leave
Common Questions
Do fathers get paternity leave?
Yes, FMLA provides the same 12 weeks of unpaid leave for fathers to bond with a new child. State paid family leave programs also cover fathers equally. Many employers offer paid paternity leave as a benefit.
How long is paternity leave?
FMLA provides up to 12 weeks unpaid. Employer policies vary from 1-12 weeks. The average paternity leave taken in the US is 1-2 weeks, though policies are becoming more generous.
Is paternity leave paid?
Federal FMLA leave is unpaid. State paid family leave programs in 13+ states provide wage replacement for fathers. Many employers now offer paid paternity leave, typically 1-8 weeks.
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