If you’re a California worker, you may have heard the term PPLO floating around, especially if you’re gearing up for parental leave. But what is it exactly? And how does it help you? Let’s break it down in plain terms so you know what’s what.
What is PPLO?
PPLO stands for Paid Parental Leave Ordinance, and it’s a local law that builds on California’s state-level Paid Family Leave (PFL). PFL gives you partial pay for bonding with a new child (birth, adoption, or foster care), but here’s the catch: PFL only covers 60-70% of your regular paycheck. That’s where PPLO comes in!
PPLO laws require employers in certain cities to top off your pay so you can take parental leave and still receive 100% of your usual earnings for up to 8 weeks.
Where Does PPLO Apply?
Not all cities have PPLO (yet), but here’s where you’re in luck:
- San Francisco
- San Francisco was the first city to roll out PPLO back in 2017.
- It applies to companies with employees working in SF for at least 8 hours per week.
- Oakland
- Oakland joined the PPLO club in 2023.
- Berkeley
- Berkeley also has its own version of PPLO.
Each city’s rules are slightly different, so it’s worth checking your city’s specific ordinance to make sure you qualify.
How Does PPLO Work?
Here’s how PPLO and California PFL work together:
- You Apply for PFL Through the EDD
Start by filing a PFL claim with the state. They’ll pay you 60-70% of your usual paycheck. - Your Employer Covers the Rest
Under PPLO, your employer is responsible for topping off the rest so you receive 100% of your wages during your bonding leave. - The Duration
You can get full pay for up to 8 weeks, as long as you meet all the requirements.
Who’s Eligible for PPLO?
To be eligible, you generally need to:
- Work in a city with PPLO. Even if your company’s HQ is elsewhere, the law applies if you’re physically working in a PPLO-covered city.
- Qualify for California PFL. You must already be eligible for PFL, so check that you’ve paid into CA SDI (you’ll see “CASDI” on your paycheck stub).
- Meet the employer size requirements. Some cities require employers to have a minimum number of employees for PPLO to apply.
Why is PPLO a Big Deal?
Let’s be real: Living in California is expensive. Trying to bond with your new baby while stressing about bills? Not fun. PPLO bridges that gap and ensures you’re not taking a financial hit during what’s supposed to be a precious (and sometimes exhausting!) time in your life.
PPLO FAQs
- What if I work remotely?
PPLO typically only applies if you physically work in a covered city. - What about small businesses?
Some cities exempt smaller employers from PPLO requirements, so check the rules for your location. - How do I know if my employer is complying?
Employers in PPLO cities are required to follow the law, so don’t hesitate to ask your HR team about it.
Final Thoughts
PPLO is a game-changer for new parents in select California cities. It guarantees 100% pay during bonding leave, making it easier to take the time off you deserve without stressing about money. If you think you might qualify, talk to your employer, double-check your city’s rules, and get ready to soak up all those baby snuggles without the paycheck panic.
Got more questions about parental leave? Reach out—we’re here to help!
