Quick Answer
Comprehensive guide to Colorado leave laws covering FAMLI paid family leave, Healthy Families Workplaces Act sick leave, and employee rights.
Colorado now has one of the most comprehensive leave programs in the nation with the FAMLI paid family leave program and mandatory paid sick leave under the Healthy Families Workplaces Act.
Quick Facts: Colorado Leave Laws
| Leave Type | Duration | Paid? | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| FAMLI | 12 weeks | Yes (90% wages) | All employers |
| Healthy Families (Sick) | 48 hours/year | Yes | All employers |
| FMLA | 12 weeks | No | 50+ employees |
FAMLI: Family and Medical Leave Insurance
Colorado's Landmark Program
Effective 2024:
- Up to 12 weeks paid leave per year
- 16 weeks for pregnancy complications
- 90% wage replacement (up to cap)
Qualifying Reasons
- Own serious health condition
- Care for family member's serious health condition
- Bond with new child
- Military qualifying exigency
- Domestic violence/abuse
Coverage
- All employers participate
- Funded by payroll contributions
- Self-employed can opt in
Job Protection
FAMLI provides job protection for leave.
Healthy Families Workplaces Act
Paid Sick Leave
All employers must provide:
- 48 hours per year
- Immediate accrual
- 1 hour per 30 hours worked
Covered Uses
- Own illness or injury
- Care for family member
- Domestic abuse situations
- Public health emergency
Public Health Emergency Leave
Additional 80 hours for pandemic/emergency situations.
Coordination with FMLA
Using Leaves Together
- FAMLI provides pay during leave
- FMLA provides additional job protection if eligible
- Leaves can run concurrently
Common Questions
How good is Colorado's paid leave?
FAMLI is one of the best programs nationally—90% wage replacement, 12 weeks, covers all workers, job protected.
Can I use both FAMLI and sick leave?
Yes. Sick leave for shorter absences; FAMLI for extended serious conditions.
Finding Legal Help
Free Resources
- FAMLI Division: famli.colorado.gov
- CDLE: cdle.colorado.gov
Related Resources
Legal Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about Colorado leave laws and is not legal advice. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed Colorado employment attorney.
Official Resources:
- FAMLI Division: https://famli.colorado.gov
Frequently Asked Questions
What is colorado's Landmark Program?
What is qualifying Reasons?
What is job Protection?
What is paid Sick Leave?
What is covered Uses?
Related Articles
FMLA in Colorado
Guide to FMLA rights in Colorado. Learn eligibility, how FMLA works with Colorado FAMLI, and how to protect your federal leave rights.
Colorado FAMLI
Colorado FAMLI provides up to 12 weeks of paid leave at 90% wage replacement for family care, bonding, your own illness, and safe leave. Effective January 2024.
Colorado Paid Sick Leave
Understand Colorado's paid sick leave law (HFWA). Learn about accrual rates, covered uses, employer requirements, and how to exercise your rights.
