Paternity leave for small businesses... what’s required?

Law Discussions
1

So I work at a small company with around 8 to 10 people. I was wondering if there are any laws about paternity leave for a company this size, or if it’s all up to the employer? Any info would be awesome!

2

Pretty sure companies with fewer than 50 employees don’t have to follow the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). They’re not required to offer paternity leave unless they choose to.

3

Pax said:
Pretty sure companies with fewer than 50 employees don’t have to follow the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). They’re not required to offer paternity leave unless they choose to.

Oh, got it. So FMLA only kicks in with 50+ employees?

4

@Emmy
Exactly! Under 50 employees and it’s optional, but they can offer it if they want.

5

If you’re in Ohio, the state laws only apply to public employees, like those working for the government. Private companies aren’t affected by it.

6

Sidney said:
If you’re in Ohio, the state laws only apply to public employees, like those working for the government. Private companies aren’t affected by it.

Ah, good to know! Thought it might be for everyone. Thanks for clearing that up!

7

Most small businesses don’t have official leave policies for stuff like this. Sometimes they let you take unpaid leave if you ask.

8

junita said:
Most small businesses don’t have official leave policies for stuff like this. Sometimes they let you take unpaid leave if you ask.

Makes sense. I’ll check if they’re open to unpaid leave or using vacation time.

9

@Emmy
Good plan! Definitely ask, and maybe they’ll be flexible with you.

10

Some companies let you use vacation or sick days if they don’t offer dedicated paternity leave.

11

Perrin said:
Some companies let you use vacation or sick days if they don’t offer dedicated paternity leave.

Thanks for the tip! I’ll ask if I can use my sick days for it.

12

It’s kinda unfair that small companies don’t have to offer this. I think there should be more leave options, honestly.

13

Oli said:
It’s kinda unfair that small companies don’t have to offer this. I think there should be more leave options, honestly.

Totally agree. It’d be great if there were some consistent policies across all businesses.