Timing: Washington is the second state after California to adopt paid family leave. Washington’s family leave insurance program was signed into law in May, 2007. Benefit payments begin October 1, 2009.

Who’s Eligible: All parents of newborn or newly adopted children who have worked at least 680 hours in the previous year (same requirement as Unemployment Insurance).

Benefits: $250 per week for up to 5 weeks (after a 1 week waiting period), prorated for people working less than 35 hours per week.

Job Protection: For workers in companies with more than 25 employees, who have been with that employer at least a year and worked at least 1,250 hours in the previous year. No worker may be discharged or discriminated against for taking paid family leave.

Elective Coverage: Self-employed people and those otherwise not covered may elect coverage, initially for a minimum of 3 years.