No wonder so many women quit their jobs and stay home for a year or two—with the rising costs of childcare, and so little support from companies and our government, many feel that they have to. And that’s only if they can swing it. My sister, a single working mom, surely couldn’t. Again, it’s shameful and I for one plan to only vote for a political candidate who is brave enough to tackle big business interests and propose a paid family leave policy.
I read recently that the Clinton administration proposed a paid family leave program that would allow states to use unemployment funds for maternity leaves. Sadly, that was shot down by the Bush administration after opposition from business groups concerned with increased contribution to state unemployment funds.
Perhaps the next administration—whether Democratic or Republican—should take a close look at California’s program. While I don’t think it provides long enough coverage, the plan does offer 50 percent pay for six weeks, paid from a fund that employees, not employers, pay into. This certainly would appease big business leaders. The next step will be for the national government to offer some sort of assistance for additional leave that families need to take. I know I certainly would not be able to hand over a six-week-old infant to a day care facility—especially if that child was born prematurely. Can you imagine?
From what I’ve read, five states—California, Hawaii, New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island, and Puerto Rico—require employers to have temporary disability programs, which pay benefits if the pregnancy is defined as a disability by a doctor. A few others have infant care programs that pay subsidies to low-income families for up to two years. But this clearly isn’t enough—especially if you do not live in these states.
Our government needs to make a national statement of support to families. Not only is it the right thing to do, I imagine in the long run, the ripple effect might even help the economy and definitely help working families from diving into poverty. What do you think? Would a paid maternity leave make a big difference in your life? I think I’d appreciate it far more than flowers or chocolates on Mother’s Day—what about you?
Related Story: MomsRising: Fighting for What Families Care About
