Paid Leave Oregon has announced that equivalent plan applications are now available to employers through an online portal.

In the works since 2019, Paid Leave Oregon, a family and medical leave program funded through payroll taxes, launches in 2023. Employer and employee contributions begin January 1, 2023, and employees may begin applying to receive benefits on September 3, 2023.

In lieu of participating in Paid Leave Oregon and paying the associated payroll contributions, employers may provide equivalent paid leave plans to their employees. Any such plan must provide benefits that are equal to or greater than the benefits offered by the state plan.

Employers must apply to have their equivalent plan approved by the Oregon Employment Department (OED). Applications are now live and available through Frances Online, OED’s new online portal. There is a non-refundable fee of $250 for equivalent plan applications.

OED has published guidance on equivalent plans and offers various resources for employers looking to learn more about Paid Leave Oregon.

If you have any questions about your company’s current policy or want assistance drafting an equivalent plan, please contact your employment counsel.

This update is prepared for the general information of our clients and friends. It should not be regarded as legal advice.