Oregon Issues Guidance on What Qualifies as a “Family Member”

play icon Two women sit closely together on a couch, smiling and looking at a book. The woman on the left has gray hair in a ponytail and wears a blue long-sleeve shirt. The woman on the right, demonstrating personal bonds in family leave, has dark hair in a ponytail and wears a cream sweater, leaning her head on the other's shoulder.

Effective through February 4, 2024, a Temporary Administrative Order provides additional detail on what qualifies as a “family member” eligible to be cared for under family leave.


“Family member” status is defined as a significant personal bond resembling a family relationship. This bond can be demonstrated through various factors, including: shared personal financial responsibility, emergency contact designation by either individual, the expectation to provide care, cohabitation, and geographical proximity. However, this is not an exhaustive list and status can be established by any other factor that may show a family-like relationship.

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