House Republicans double down against paid family, medical leave

This afternoon, the House Commerce and Labor Subcommittee #2 blocked legislation that would help employers allow workers to continue to earn a portion of their pay while they take time away from work due to pregnancy, a serious health condition, or to care for a family member or newborn.

HB 999, patroned by Delegate Mark Levine (45th – Alexandria) would have created the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program, entitling individuals to receive 67 percent of their pay for up to 60 days to take care of themselves or a family member for medical reasons.

“Whether it’s the first day after our child is born or the last words of our parents on their deathbed, there are certain events in our life more important than any other. These are days we want to focus on taking care of our families and not on working to pay for rent or food,” said Delegate Mark Levine. “I’m disappointed that my Republican colleagues on the Commerce and Labor Subcommittee have so little concern for such basic family values.”

Only 13 percent of workers in the United States have paid family leave. Laws providing paid family and medical leave allow workers to meet these needs without jeopardizing their economic security.