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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

A New Family and Medical Insurance Leave (FAMILY) Act Would Help Workers, Families, and the National Economy

February 12, 2019, Washington, DC – The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) today called for Congress to pass the FAMILY Act, which would create a national family and medical leave insurance program. NCJW CEO Nancy K. Kaufman released the following statement:

“The Family and Medical Insurance Leave (FAMILY) Act proposed today would bring at least part of our country’s safety net up to the standards set by the rest of the industrialized world. Existing law enacted more than 25 years ago requires many large employers to provide to up to 12 weeks of leave each year to care for a newborn, a newly adopted child, or a seriously ill family member, or to deal with a serious health condition of their own, including pregnancy. But it’s unpaid leave. And the law is effectively inaccessible to two-thirds of all workers, due to eligibility restrictions or because people cannot afford to take unpaid leave. The FAMILY Act would ensure people can take the time they need to care for themselves and their families without risking their economic security.

“The lack of paid leave most harms low-income workers, including women and people of color. It also harms the economy — lost wages from unpaid leave cost workers an estimated $20.6 billion per year. The FAMILY Act builds on successful state programs that are proven to work, and are affordable for employees, employers, and the government. We urge Members of Congress to cosponsor and support swift passage of this important legislation.”

The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. More information on Facebook and on Twitter at @NCJW.