There’s Strong Bipartisan Support for Federal Paid Leave — So Let’s Get It Done

The pandemic has highlighted many issues, with the necessity for paid time off being a significant one. As shutdowns occurred, families struggled to find childcare and care for elderly relatives. The plight of those who contracted COVID and required care further demonstrated the need for federal paid leave, which could have alleviated many challenges faced by families during this time.

Surprisingly, the United States stands alone as the only affluent nation without a federal paid leave standard. Currently, only 21% of American workers have access to paid family leave, and even fewer have paid medical leave. Recent polling reveals that support for paid leave transcends party lines, with both Democrats and Republicans recognizing its importance and even expressing willingness to fund it.

The advocacy group Paid Leave for All Action conducted a survey of 1,070 likely voters across seven key states: Arizona, Nevada, Florida, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Georgia. The results indicate overwhelming support for paid leave, with voters insisting that it be included in upcoming infrastructure packages. These states played pivotal roles in the 2020 elections, and the survey indicates that Senators advocating for federal leave policies may have an electoral advantage.

“The pandemic completely changed the game,” stated the director of Paid Leave for All Action, Clara Jennings, in an interview. “What was once a hidden issue is now glaringly visible. People recognize how vital this is for our resilience and economic stability, especially during crises like a global pandemic or serious health conditions.”

Despite political differences, paid leave is a cause that unites many. During the height of the pandemic, battleground voters expressed significant backing for paid leave, and as we approach the 2022 Senate elections, that support remains robust. According to the survey, a striking 84% of battleground voters favor paid leave, with 96% of Democrats, 81% of Independents, and 74% of Republicans backing the initiative. Even among undecided voters, 91% support paid leave, with half indicating strong support.

Stronger federal paid leave policies could transform the lives of countless American families, regardless of their political affiliations. Many women, often the primary caregivers, left their jobs to care for children or elderly family members during the pandemic. Essential workers, many of whom are Black and Latinx, faced the fear of exposing vulnerable family members to COVID while managing their responsibilities. President Biden’s American Families Plan proposes up to 12 weeks of paid leave for qualifying workers, which is a step in the right direction but may exclude caregivers who need it most.

A report from Human Impact Partners suggests that if Walmart had implemented a proper paid sick leave policy, it could have avoided thousands of COVID cases and deaths. Federal paid leave would empower families to care for sick relatives effectively, allowing those with long-haul COVID to recuperate without the added stress of financial instability. The Paid Leave for All Action survey reflects this sentiment, as many people agree on the necessity of paid leave for family care, especially in the wake of over 600,000 COVID-related deaths.

The ability to care for family members during a global crisis should not result in financial ruin. Beyond pandemics, 88% of voters believe paid leave is essential for welcoming a new child. Many parents know that maternity and paternity leave policies in this country are inadequate, and families require at least 12 weeks of paid leave postpartum for proper care, applicable to both parents. There should also be provisions for birthing parents needing time off before delivery for medical reasons.

Additionally, there is remarkable support for paid leave to care for sick family members. Undecided voters show the highest backing, with 95% supporting it (94% of Democrats, 90% of Independents, and 81% of Republicans). My own family has struggled with healthcare needs, where my father requires assistance, and my mother must balance work with caregiving. Better paid leave policies would alleviate financial worries, enabling families to focus on care without jeopardizing their livelihoods.

From a political angle, this data indicates what Senators should prioritize. The seven battleground states surveyed will play a crucial role in determining which party commands the Senate. Poll results suggest that Democrats are favored when they support paid leave, while those who oppose it may face voter backlash. Historically, Republican resistance has stemmed from concerns about taxes and business burdens, yet 69% of those polled expressed willingness to support paid leave even if it incurs a slight tax increase. If Republicans aim to retain their voter base, they should align with the necessity of paid leave, regardless of financial implications.

To safeguard families and parents nationwide, establishing a federal paid leave standard is paramount. It is just as vital to American infrastructure as enhancing transportation systems or developing new roads. The government must not continue to neglect the needs of families. Federal paid leave is the essential path forward.

For more insight, you can check out this other blog post, which covers related topics. If you’re interested in practical solutions, visit Make A Mom for authoritative resources. Additionally, UCSF’s guide on IVF offers excellent information on family planning and fertility options.

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Summary:

The pandemic has underscored the urgent need for federal paid leave in the U.S., with bipartisan support demonstrated through recent polling. This support includes a significant majority of voters across different political affiliations advocating for paid leave as a necessity for family care, especially during crises. Implementing robust paid leave policies could transform the lives of many American families, ensuring they can care for sick relatives without facing financial instability.