Policy Resource
The Importance of Paid Family Leave for American Working Families
The following statement was submitted to the Senate Committee on Finance Subcommittee on Social Security, Pensions, and Family Policy by Matthew Melmed, executive director of ZERO TO THREE, on July 11, 2018.

“We often hear that we should take incremental steps in enacting such a far-reaching policy that could potentially benefit every family in America. I submit that we have already taken that step, with the Family and Medical Leave Act 25 years ago. I think American families do an incredible job in weaving the fabric of our society, but they are stressed to the limit and need more than another baby step forward. They cannot afford to wait another generation to have supports that enable them to nurture their families and be productive workers. So, I welcome the opportunity to discuss the critical importance of a comprehensive paid family and medical leave social insurance program for our nation’s youngest families, those with newborn or newly adopted babies, infants, and toddlers, and for all families.”
Download the full statement to read more.
Read more about:
You might also be interested in
-
Resource
In October 2021, the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP) and ZERO TO THREE convened a group of state leaders and national experts to discuss strategies to promote the economic security of famili…
-
Article
Maryland Passes Paid Family and Medical Leave and Celebrates Other Significant Wins
Last weekend, Maryland legislators overrode the Governor’s veto to pass the state’s Time to Care Act of 2022.
-
Article
Rhode Island Celebrates Big Wins for Babies
The 2021 Rhode Island legislative session wrapped up with several impressive wins for babies and their families.
-
Article
Continuing the Rally for Paid Family Medical Leave in States
ZERO TO THREE and CLASP recently hosted several states at a virtual joint economic security convening. Among other presentations, participants heard from Andrea Paluso of Family Forward Oregon about …