New York must update it’s Paid Family Leave Laws

Did you know that most employees in the US don’t have access to paid family and medical leave? That means that if something happens to them or someone they care for, they can be left having to choose between a paycheck or their health. Many people have to make these difficult decisions and when it comes to a cardiovascular incident like a stroke or cardiac arrest, that could mean that folks are coming back to work much sooner than their doctor recommends, putting their health and well-being at risk.

The risk is also higher for children and families of caregivers who are in this situation. Kids with conditions like heart conditions could be less likely to see the doctor or get the treatments as recommended because their parents can’t take off work to be able to take them. When there’s a new baby, parents might not have the time to bond with them and support them in their first moments of life.

New York was one of the first states to have a Paid Family Leave Law – but the law hasn’t changed in years. New Yorkers only receive $160 dollars a week. Hardly enough to make ends meet these days.

With an updated Paid Family and Medical Leave law, employers would work with the state to provide temporary compensation to their employee if they or a loved one experiences a medical incident that requires some leave time. This partnership between the state and the employer has been celebrated by employers in other states because it improves job satisfaction and workplace retention, helping keep the workforce stronger.

New Yorkers don’t want to be stuck having to choose between and job and medical care. With the proposed Paid Family and Medical Leave bill, New Yorkers can focus on their health, helping them be more prepared to come back to work when it’s time.

It’s time for New York to update the Paid Family and Medical Leave.