The majority of public employees (state, municipal, federal) do not pay into California’s State Disability Insurance program, and therefore cannot use Paid Family Leave or State Disability Insurance. However, it is possible for public employees to opt in as a group (through their bargaining unit as defined by an MOU or union contract). Some state workers in California have done so. Check your pay stubs to see if you pay into California State Disability Insurance (CA SDI). Also talk to your employer to see if they offer different paid leave benefits.