Maternity leave in California is typically up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave, but it can vary depending on the specific circumstances. The California Family Rights Act (CFRA) and the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) both provide eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for the birth or adoption of a child, or to care for a seriously ill family member.
However, California also has its own Paid Family Leave (PFL) program, which provides up to 8 weeks of partial wage replacement for employees who take time off to bond with a new child. This means that in California, eligible employees can receive a combination of unpaid CFRA/FMLA leave and paid PFL benefits for a total of up to 12 weeks of leave.
It's important to note that not all employees are eligible for CFRA, FMLA, or PFL benefits, and there are specific requirements that must be met in order to qualify for these programs. Additionally, some employers may offer more generous maternity leave policies as part of their benefits package.
Overall, the length of maternity leave in California can vary based on a variety of factors, so it's important to carefully review your specific situation and consult with your employer or HR department to fully understand your options.