FAQ: Minnesota's New Paid Family & Medical Leave Program

What Employers Need to Know for 2026

Starting January 1, 2026, Minnesota will implement a Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program — providing employees with job-protected leave and partial wage replacement for qualifying life events such as medical conditions, caring for family members, or bonding with a new child.

At PRO Resources, we’re proactively preparing so our clients are fully compliant and ready before the new program takes effect. 

Q: What is Minnesota’s Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML)?

A: Beginning January 1, 2026, Minnesota will implement a new statewide Paid Family and Medical Leave program, which will provide job-protected leave and wage replacement benefits for qualifying life events like medical conditions, family care, and bonding with a new child.

Q: How is PRO Resources handling this for clients?

A: PRO Resources will be fully managing PFML compliance on your behalf, including:

• Registering with the MN Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) under a private plan.
• Administering payroll deductions and remitting contributions (both employee and employer portions) starting January 1, 2026.
• Providing ongoing updates, including rate changes, deadlines, and state-issued resources.

Q: What do employers need to do right now, if you are a PRO Resources Customer?

A: No immediate action is required if you are a PRO Resources customer. PRO Resources is working behind the scenes to align all systems and ensure your compliance. We’re committed to making this as easy and seamless as possible for your business.

Q: What support will PRO Resources provide?

We’re finalizing a comprehensive Employer Toolkit, which will include:

• Step-by-step action items to prepare
• Employee communication templates
• Important dates and deadlines
• FAQs and compliance guidance
• Required workplace poster
• A Paid Leave Comparison Guide 

Q: What is the “Private Plan” through Guardian, and how is it different?

A: PRO Resources has selected a private PFML plan through Guardian that offers several key advantages over the state plan, including:

• Cost Savings and Rate Stability
  • Lower contribution rates than the state’s plan for 2026 (.83%)
  • Rates locked in through 2027
• Better Service Experience
  • Personalized, high-touch support for employees and families
  • Faster, smoother claims handling

Q: Why is PRO Resources using only the Guardian private plan?

To provide the most consistent and cost-effective service, PRO Resources will exclusively administer PFML through Guardian. This ensures:

• Streamlined administration across all clients
• Consistent service and claims support
• Access to stable, lower rates (.83%)

Please note: We will not be able to support standalone private PFML plans purchased outside of our offering, and we do not provide administrative or compliance support for employers who choose to participate in the state-run program.

Q: What if our company has fewer than 30 employees?

A: If your business has fewer than 30 employees:

• Participation in PRO’s private PFML plan is still required (at the rate of .83%).
• While the state-run plan may offer a lower rate for small employers, choosing that path means you would be fully responsible for all administration and compliance.

Q: What happens next?

A: We’ll continue to provide timely updates as more guidance becomes available from the state. Our mission is to keep you compliant, minimize disruptions, and make this transition as beneficial as possible for your business and your team.

Have Questions?

Reach out to your PRO Resources Human Resources or Benefits Representative, we’re here to help guide you in every step of the way