Small Business Resources For CT Paid Family Leave

October 4, 2021

I've long been aware that too many workers have gone to work when they're sick, or when a family member is sick, so they don't lose income. Workers shouldn't have to put their families, their customers, their employers, and their fellow employees at risk of catching a disease. In the age of a pandemic, this is extraordinarily important.

In 2019, Connecticut was one of the first states in the nation to pass paid family and medical leave to provide working parents with the support they deserve. As our state begins to roll out these benefits this January, the CT Paid Leave Authority has developed several resources to assist small businesses throughout this transition. 

CT Paid Leave Online Portal

Beginning January 1st, there will be significant changes to the CT Family and Medical Leave Act. Income replacement benefits will be available for Connecticut workers who need to take unpaid time away from work to attend to their personal — or a loved one’s — health needs. 

Previously, Connecticut’s Family and Medical Leave Act only applied to workplaces with 50 or more employees, but as of January 1st, the CT FMLA's job-protections will apply to workplaces with one or more employees to ensure all workers in Connecticut receive the assistance they need.

It is equally important that we support both families and small business owners throughout the state. While these benefits begin in January, applicants may begin to file before the start date. In preparation, the CT Paid Leave Authority has put together the following webpage to guide businesses as they navigate this shift. Please click here.

Additionally, the Connecticut Small Business Development Center will host a series of webinars on the subject. I will continue to provide updates about these resources as they roll out.

If you have any questions about these resources or the CT Family and Medical Leave Act, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office.