Van Hollen Statement on the Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act

Press Release

Van Hollen Statement on the Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act

Today, Congressman Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) issued the following statement on Government Oversight and Reform Committee markup of the Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act:

"This committee has worked hard to ensure that the Federal Government is a model employer that tries to set the standard rather than bring up the rear when it comes to policies for employees and the workforce. The Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act takes us another step in that direction, giving our workers a benefit that is currently enjoyed by employees of most Fortune 100 companies.

"This legislation would allow federal employees to take up to four weeks of paid leave for the birth or adoption of a child, in addition to the 12 weeks of unpaid leave they are already allowed to take. The Federal Government should not be asking employees to choose between taking a little bit of time to care for their newborn child, and getting a paycheck to help pay for their mortgage or for rent or putting food on the dinner table - especially during these difficult economic times.

"I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of the Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act and I look forward to joining my colleagues in voting for final passage of this important legislation."

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