We congratulate our New York coalition for years of activism to make theirs the fourth state with paid family leave. This win, the result of engagement by hundreds of organizations and businesses and thousands of individuals, will significantly improve the lives of 7.5 million New Yorkers and their families.
When fully phased in, New York’s plan will turn small employee contributions into 12 weeks of family leave at two-thirds pay to all workers, and include job protection so that workers won’t be dissuaded from taking this essential time to care for their loved ones. Importantly, this agreement came with bipartisan support, after voters from across the state made it clear to their elected officials that babies and cancer affect all of us.
The Washington Work and Family Coalition, together with the 23 other coalitions in the national Family Values @ Work network, commend New York for setting a paid family leave standard for the rest of our country to follow. We know their victory will inspire coalitions in DC, Massachusetts and Connecticut, all vying to be next — and all paving the way for a national paid family leave program.
Learn more about New York’s victory for working families!
Washington Work and Family Coalition 