Recently, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) conducted a virtual event to discuss the current state of Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) and its implications for small business owners in Connecticut. The session was led by NFIB State Director Andy Markowski, who was joined by representatives from the Connecticut Paid Leave Authority.
During the event, attendees were informed about the legislative journey of PFML. The program was established through legislation passed in 2019. Payroll collection from employees began in 2021 to fund the initiative, with leave benefits becoming available in 2022.
NFIB has been actively opposing this program within Connecticut. “Thanks to our small business owners for speaking out on the issue and making their voices heard,” an NFIB representative stated.
The organization addressed several questions from its members regarding PFML. Small business owners and other interested parties were encouraged to contact Amber Forrest or Jessica Vargas from the Connecticut Paid Leave Authority for further information. Additionally, those wishing to engage more deeply with NFIB can reach out to Grassroots Manager Julianna Rauf.
Contact details provided during the event include:
– Amber Forrest, Executive Assistant at CT Paid Leave Authority: Amber.Forrest@CT.gov | 860-558-6691
– Jessica Vargas, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at CT Paid Leave Authority: Jessica.Vargas@CT.gov | 860-929-9121
For further inquiries or interest in involvement with NFIB, individuals are advised to contact Julianna Rauf at Julianna.Rauf@NFIB.org.



