Paid Leave is a Lifeline, Not a Luxury
May 5, 2026
What would you do if a family member had a stroke and needed full-time care? You may be in the minority of Ohioans with guaranteed access to paid leave, but more than likely, you are among the 77% who lack such a guarantee. You could face the impossible decision between a paycheck and caring for a loved one.
That’s why paid family and medical leave is more than a workplace benefit—it’s a lifeline during our most vulnerable moments. Whether it’s caring for a loved one with a serious illness, bonding with a foster child, or recovering from a major surgery, paid leave ensures families can prioritize health and safety without risking their livelihoods. Yet the U.S. is one of the few countries that does not guarantee access to it.
When workers have access to paid family and medical leave, families thrive, and businesses benefit from a more stable, productive workforce. For families in Ohio, paid leave would lower infant mortality rates and increase breastfeeding rates, which has been shown to improve the heart health of the parent and baby!
Additionally, access to paid family and medical leave is lowest among the workers who need it most. Implementing a paid leave program in Ohio would help working-class families who cannot afford to miss a paycheck when a family member is sick.
That is why the American Heart Association is working with the Time to Care Ohio Coalition to advocate for paid leave. Senate Bill 396 includes family caregiving leave, parental leave, and personal medical leave.
- Family caregiving leave: for workers supporting a family member with a serious illness, such as heart disease or stroke, or end-of-life care.
- Parental leave: to support parents following birth, adoption, or foster placement.
- Personal medical leave: support for a worker recovering from a serious health condition themself.
Do you have a personal story about why paid leave matters to you? Would you be willing to share your thoughts? Click here!
We will continue to update you about the progress of this bill and how you can use your advocacy to make a difference.