Indiana statutes do not mandate employers to provide paid time off for fathers following the birth or adoption of a child. This absence of a statewide requirement contrasts with some other states that have enacted legislation addressing parental leave specifically for fathers. Therefore, fathers in Indiana rely on federal law and employer policies to determine their eligibility for leave.
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for the birth or adoption of a child. This federal law is significant because it ensures that employees who meet certain criteria, such as working for a covered employer and meeting minimum hours-worked requirements, can take leave without fear of losing their jobs. However, the unpaid nature of this leave can present financial challenges for many families.
