Assemblymember Didi Barrett (D-Columbia, Dutchess) announced the Assembly passed legislation she sponsored to implement paid family leave benefits for injury or sickness, pregnancy or to care for a family member (A.3870). Providing workers with paid time off to care for their families is not only good for their economic security but also benefits the overall economy and society as a whole.

"Whether addressing the needs of a baby or child or caring for an aging parent, hardworking families must to be able to take time off without losing their job," said Assemblymember Barrett. "This is particularly important for women since in 40% of households with kids under 18 the mom is the sole breadwinner."

While the federal Family and Medical Leave Act guarantees 12 weeks of unpaid leave to some workers so they can care for a sick relative or nurture a new child, most people can’t afford to take unpaid time off from work, and unfortunately, about 40 percent of the workforce is not covered by this policy.

Under the legislation passed today, businesses would be required to offer a paid family leave benefit and employers could have workers contribute up to 45 cents per week to the policy. This small employee contribution would ensure up to 12 weeks of paid family leave, cover two-thirds of the worker’s salary and guarantee job security during the absence.

Unexpected medical emergencies, childbirth and care of aging relatives are issues all families face, yet only about 12 percent of private-sector workers currently have access to paid family leave, Assemblymember Barrett noted. This bill would help hardworking individuals avoid financial disaster and, in turn, bolster family earnings and the state’s economy.

“I now urge the governor to support this important piece of legislation to help all New Yorkers work and family,” Barrett concluded.