713-333-4430Paid Family Leave in Texas? What Houston Parents Are Missing Out On
New and expecting parents in Texas spend a lot of time planning for (and worrying about) maternity and paternity leave. It feels like putting together a puzzle that only has half the pieces—and unfortunately, in Texas and many other states, that’s exactly what it is. There is no statewide paid family leave available for new parents, which immediately puts new parents in a tough financial position. It’s important to understand what your options are at the federal level, what’s happening at the state level, and what your employer may offer. These challenges affect both biological parents and those becoming parents via adoption, who often require the help of a family law attorney to get the same rights as biological parents.
At Boudreaux Hunter & Associates, LLC, we understand the complex challenges that families navigate. With the assistance of attorney Shannon L. Boudreaux, clients work through issues like divorce, child custody, and adoption. As a family lawyer, she has reunited children with parents, worked through difficult custody battles, and advocated passionately for her clients. Call us at 713-333-4430 to set up a consultation with our family law firm now.
Texas Has No Statewide Paid Family Leave Program
There is no federal law offering paid leave for new parents, leaving the U.S. alone in a sea of developed countries that have robust support for families. A number of states have stepped in to fill that gap, providing publicly funded paid leave options for new moms and dads. Texas is not among them, despite legislative efforts to provide some financial security to parents for whom months off of work could mean eviction or having utilities turned off.
What This Means for Houston Families
Some families aren’t affected by this gap in state coverage; thanks to private employers’ paid options, a large savings account, or support from family members, they are able to take the time they need off of work to recuperate and bond with their new baby. However, those who are likely to be affected include those who live paycheck to paycheck, fear retaliation from their workplace, or do not have support from a spouse or partner. Those who become parents via surrogacy or adoption often struggle to get the same rights as other parents, often requiring the assistance of a family law attorney.
The only real form of government protection that families can rely on is FMLA. The Family and Medical Leave Act allows certain employees to take up to 12 weeks off for the birth of a child or adoption, as well as other non-parental medical reasons. To qualify, an employee must have worked for the company for at least 12 months. The employer must be covered, which means having more than 50 employees in a 75-mile radius. However, FMLA is unpaid. Even if your job is protected federally, unpaid leave is often not enough for family members to take time off.
Your Job May Offer Some Protection
Even though it isn’t required by the government, some employers do offer paid leave to their employees. For example, Texas State Agencies offer eight weeks of paid leave for new mothers and four weeks for fathers. Employers in competitive industries often use paid leave as a benefit that sets them apart from other companies to bring in high-level talent. A recent law passed in Texas allows employers to buy paid leave insurance for employees, but few companies have used that option.
Proposed Solutions in Texas
A handful of Texas legislators have recognized this gap in coverage and attempted to find solutions for Texas families. Efforts have included a paid leave program funded by the state and tax incentives to employers who provide paid leave to employees. These efforts have failed, due to cost concerns and political divisions.
What Texan Families Are Missing Out On
Thirteen states and Washington D.C. have mandatory paid family leave. These programs are generally funded by payroll taxes or private insurance. In 2026, several more states are starting to phase in benefits. These programs offer paid leave for up to 12 weeks for new parents, with other states requiring a minimum of two to eight weeks. Wage replacement benefits are between 60% and 100% of an employee’s average weekly wage.
Get the Support You Need With a Houston Family Lawyer
If you’re facing family law concerns, having the right legal team by your side can make a significant difference. Find out how our family law firm can help by calling us at 713-333-4430 or contacting us online.
Attorney Kevin Hunter at Boudreaux Hunter & Associates, LLC has experience with child custody, spousal support, high conflict divorce, and is fully equipped to guide you through the process. Learn more about Kevin on his profile here.
