The U.S. Congress is
considering passing a paid family leave bill that would guarantee four weeks of paid leave for workers in the United States. And while four weeks seems like a big victory compared to what we have now - literally no mandatory paid leave whatsoever - it is simply not enough.
We must encourage Congress to reconsider the 12 week leave proposal!
Sign now to tell Congress to pass a law providing 12 weeks of mandatory paid leave!For years, researchers have pointed to the enormous
benefits of paid family leave. Giving people time off after delivering a child or to deal with caretaking responsibilities for children or elders can help
reduce stress, which dramatically improves health outcomes. That, in turn, contributes to the economy and society in many important ways.
Newborns and parents are less likely to revisit the hospital after delivery,
families are more likely to remain financially stable, and parents are even more likely to be able to maintain a healthy diet and exercise when they can use paid leave. The question is: with benefits so overwhelmingly obvious, why hasn't the U.S. implemented a paid leave program?
Globally, the average paid maternity leave is 29 weeks, and the average paternity leave is 16 weeks. U.S. workers deserve the same benefits that workers in other countries get - and we must not settle for less.Experts worry that if Congress only passes 4 weeks of paid leave, Americans won't be able to reap the full benefits of the program.
It is time Congress enters the 21st century and passes 12 weeks of paid family leave! Sign the petition now if you agree!