WASHINGTON, D.C. – There’s another push on Capitol Hill to get paid leave for all workers. Democratic lawmakers said too many families are dealt with hard decisions like choosing between taking care of a loved one and paying their bills. However, businesses argue they won’t be able to afford this.
“Do I stay home to take care of my newborn or do I go to work to feed my other kids,” asked Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D- NY) to a crowd. “Do I stay at home to rest after surgery or do I rush back to work with my own health being at risk?”
Senator Gillibrand said these are some of the realities many people face when it comes to taking time off work. To remedy that, the Senator and other members are once again pushing for legislation that would require paid leave.
“The FAMILY Act would end these impossible choices,” said the Senator. “The FAMILY Act would guarantee 12 weeks of partial income for workers to have to take leave for any one of these life events including recovering from their own serious health condition, looking after a sick family member or caring for a newborn. And it would cover all workers in America.”
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 27 million Americans do not have access to paid sick leave.
“Barely a quarter of Americans are provided time off without risking their jobs,” said Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D- CT). “An unexpected sickness or the birth of a child which should be a joyous occasion could become a financial challenge.”
Members argue that paid sick leave for everyone, including part-time workers, would benefit the economy and improve financial stability for workers. Arguments against this said it could be a financial burden for employers, especially small businesses. Others argue that the cost of paid leave might be passed on to the workers through lower wages or higher prices for consumers. However, advocates for paid leave argue everyone deserves to take time off from work during life’s biggest moments.
“At a time of division, paid leave reminds us what we share and what’s most important, the ability to support and be there for the people who we love,” said Dawn Huckelbridge, founding director of Paid Leave for All.
