A California state program that goes into effect Thursday will allow most workers to take up to six weeks off to attend to a new baby or adopted child, or care for an ailing spouse or parent, while receiving at least part of their pay. The program is being financed by a payroll tax and will cover all California workers who pay state disability insurance taxes. Some employers are worried about the effects that long-term absences will have on business.
See "New Parents Applaud Paid Family Leave Law", Debora Vrana and Gabrielle Banks, Los Angeles Times, June 29, 2004