Pursuing Equitable Implementation of State Paid Family Leave Policies: A Case Study From Washington State on the Role of Tribal Engagement and Sovereignty

This Policy Brief describes implementation of a state-level paid family and medical leave policy in the context of Tribal government engagement and participation and American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) paid leave access. The author presents a case study analysis from Washington state using an emerging Washington State Tribal PFML Policy Implementation Framework. Current gaps in State-Tribal engagement have significant implications for equitable policy access given the state’s obligations to meaningfully consult with Tribes surrounding policy-making that affects their nations and citizens, the large number of Tribal employees in the state, and the stark inequities facing AIAN people. Practice recommendations are offered for state and Tribal leaders to advance equitable AIAN access to paid leave in the future.