DeLauro, Gillibrand Introduce Family And Medical Insurance Leave Act

Press Release

Congresswomen Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) introduced new legislation today that would create paid family and medical leave. The Family and Medical Insurance Leave (FAMILY) Actwould establish a national paid family and medical leave insurance program, ensuring that American workers would no longer have to choose between a paycheck and caring for themselves or a family member. They were joined at the announcement by business leaders and advocates, who talked about why the bill makes sense for businesses, as well as employees.

"In 1986, when I was Chief of Staff to Senator Chris Dodd, I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer," said Congresswoman DeLauro. "My doctors caught it early, but I still needed time for radiation treatment, recuperation and recovery. Senator Dodd told me to focus on getting well, and to take the time I needed. I could get better without worrying if I was out of a job or paycheck. All workers should have this opportunity when they need it. No one should have to choose between their job and taking care of themself and their family. With the FAMILY Act, they would not have to."

"When a young parent needs time to care for a newborn child -- it should never come down to an outdated policy that lets her boss decide how long it will take -- and decide the fate of her career and her future along with it. When any one of us -- man or woman -- needs time to care for a dying parent -- we should not have to sacrifice our job and risk our future to do the right thing for our family. Choosing between your loved ones and your career and your future is a choice no one should have to make," said Senator Gillibrand.

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