As we pass the midpoint of 2025, it’s a good time for Massachusetts employers to review important new laws that affect everything from paid leave to pay transparency. Here’s what’s in effect, plus what’s coming later this year. 

Paid Family & Medical Leave (MA PFML) Updates 

Effective January 1, 2025 

• Contribution rates remain unchanged: 0.88% for employers with 25+ workforce; 0.46% for smaller employers. Employers may deduct up to 100% of the family leave contribution and 40% of medical leave contribution from employees, depending on size.  
• Maximum weekly benefit increases: from $1,149.90 (2024) to $1,170.64 (2025) per week.  
• Employers were required to notify current employees by December 2, 2024, and continue to provide notices to new hires within 30 days. Updated posters and rate sheets have also been issued by DFML.  

Pay Transparency Requirements 

Effective October 29, 2025 

• Employers with 25 or more employees must include pay ranges in all job postings, whether internal or external. 
• Must also provide pay range to employees upon promotion or transfer, or upon request. Retaliation against those who ask is prohibited.  
• Employers with 100+ employees must submit federal EEO-1 reports (or equivalent) to the state starting February 2025 and every year thereafter.  

Wage & Hour Standards 

No changes to the standard minimum wage, it remains at $15.00/hour, with a $6.75 tipped minimum wage rate. Employers are responsible for ensuring tipped employees earn at least the full minimum. Overtime continues at 1.5× regular pay after 40 hours per week. 

Lyft/Uber Settlement Benefits for Drivers 

Effective August 15, 2025 

Independent ride-share drivers will receive guaranteed minimum pay of $32.50/hour, paid sick leave, healthcare stipends, and occupational accident insurance, thanks to a state AG-led settlement. This applies to drivers working 15+ hours weekly.  

What It Means for You 

• Review PFML contribution and notice requirements 
• Prepare for EMERGING pay transparency and reporting rules 
• Stay informed on gig-worker payment protections 

At Journey Payroll & HR, we monitor these legal updates so you don’t have to. Need help navigating PFML compliance, pay transparency planning, or understanding the new ride-share obligations? We’re here to guide you through.