Opt-In Paid Leave Model Presents Growing Alternative to Mandates

A conservative breed of voluntary paid leave laws, backed by the life insurance industry, is emerging amid the slow spread of paid family leave programs in Democratic-led states.

The opt-in paid leave model is one answer to growing public support and policy maker discussions around giving workers time off for caregiving and health needs. Under the model, insurers sell paid family leave insurance to employers that want to add it to their employee benefits packages.

Virginia’s legislature this year became the first to authorize this type of insurance. A similar, model bill is awaiting final approval from the National Conference ...