Which states have been naughty and which ones have been nice? Here’s what insurance brokers need to know going into 2026.
Breaking news: The DBL Center has heard from inside sources that New York lawmakers will receive a hefty helping of coal in its stocking – and nothing more – from Santa Claus again this year.
The reason? Once again failing to increase New York State DBL benefits in line with the cost of living.
Santa’s “fair market” salary increased by 4% in 2025, according to the Insure.com Santa Index. Based on the Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data listing average hourly wages for Santa’s duties, from “workshop” (factory) manager to professional shopper, the jolly old elf should earn $186,626 this year, up from $178,672 in 2024.
If Santa had to claim disability benefits in New York, the state maximum benefit of $170 per week would not make a dent in replacing his annual salary or covering his costs. In spite of setting trends with paid family leave laws, the New York State Insurance Fund has not increased NYS Disability Benefit rates since 1989.
Once again, if Santa has a say, New York State legislators will wake up to coal in their stockings Christmas morning.
Looking on the bright side, several states increased benefits or introduced new programs for family and medical leave going into 2026. The states on this list allow cost savings and better service, in many cases, through private insurance.
States on The DBL Center’s Nice List
DBL Center brokers can spread holiday cheer throughout the New Year, no sleigh and reindeer required, by showing their clients how to save money with private Paid Family and Medical Leave plans in the following states.
We compiled this data so you can start making your own list of ways to increase commissions in 2025.
Colorado
Colorado raised its maximum weekly benefit to $1,381.45 for 2026. The state adjusts the benefit annually based on the average weekly wage. Colorado tops our list because it also has the most generous benefit based on the cost-of-living in the state. Learn more about Paid Leave in Colorado in our resource center.
Connecticut
Connecticut remains on The DBL Center’s nice list once again. The state has provided Paid Family & Medical Leave Benefits since 2022, although premiums are fully paid by employees. Private plans are available, which means brokers can help their clients save money and roll that savings into ancillary benefits.
Delaware
Delaware makes our “nice” list this year, with benefits going into effect for the first time on January 1, 2026. Most workers at businesses with 25+ employees can collect 80% of their average weekly wage for up to $900 for up to six weeks for their own medical condition, or up to 12 weeks for combined family and medical leave. Employers with 10 to 24 employees only have to provide family leave, while smaller businesses have a choice to opt in.
Hawaii
The DBL Center has been helping brokers write TDI in Hawaii for decades. Employees can collect 58% of their salary up to $871 per week for a disability claim.
Maryland
Maryland earns a spot on our Nice list for their paid family and medical leave legislation. Stay tuned for breaking news from Maryland regarding timelines. Sources tell us that employers can begin paying into the program as of January 1, 2027. It’s not too soon for brokers to start thinking about profit opportunities in the state.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts remains on our Nice list for rolling out one of the most robust PFML programs back in 2021. The state is increasing the maximum benefit for 2026, up to $1,230 per week based on increases in the state’s average weekly wage.
Minnesota
Minnesota’s Paid Medical Leave Law begins January 1, 2026, earning the state a spot on our nice list. Benefits will be capped at $1,423 per week.
Maine
Maine remains on our “nice list” although the state’s paid medical leave program won’t begin until May 1, 2026. We will release more information as it becomes available.
Oregon
Oregon remains on our Nice list. In 2025, the state earned the distinction of the best Paid Leave Program in the U.S. based on The DBL Center’s independent research. Benefits in 2026 rise in line with the state’s average weekly wage, going from $1,568 to $1,636.
New Jersey
New Jersey announced a small increase in the maximum weekly benefit for temporary disability insurance (TDI), from $1081to $1119, earning the state a consistent spot on our nice list.
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