Minnesota launched its historic Paid Family and Medical Leave program on January 1, 2026. This week, the first 2,600 approved workers received weekly payments averaging $1,153. Over 25,000 residents applied immediately, with a 66% approval rate so far. Funded by a 0.88% payroll tax, the program expects 130,000 claims this year. These benefits provide vital wage replacement for medical recovery, newborn bonding, or family caregiving across the state.