In a groundbreaking move, New Zealand’s Parliament has unanimously passed a new law granting couples who experience a miscarriage or stillbirth three days of paid leave. This legislation marks the first of its kind globally, extending bereavement benefits to those affected by pregnancy loss, including parents planning to expand their families through adoption or surrogacy.
Previously, New Zealand employers were mandated to offer paid leave in cases of stillbirth occurring after 20 weeks of gestation. The new law broadens this provision to encompass any pregnancy loss, regardless of the timing. It is projected to be enacted in the upcoming weeks.
“It empowers individuals to request the time they need to grieve instead of just pushing through,” stated Claire Johnson, the member of Parliament who sponsored the bill. Johnson emphasized the importance of acknowledging that grief is not merely an illness but a significant loss that requires time to process.
The legislation comes at a critical moment, particularly as the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the challenges faced by those experiencing pregnancy complications. The law does not extend to abortion cases, highlighting the unique nature of miscarriage and stillbirth.
In Australia, individuals who miscarry after 12 weeks of pregnancy are eligible for unpaid leave, while in the UK, parents facing a stillbirth after 24 weeks can access paid leave. In stark contrast, the United States does not mandate any paid leave for those who experience miscarriage.
According to the March of Dimes, approximately 10-15% of recognized pregnancies in the U.S. end in miscarriage during the first trimester, with a 1-5% occurrence in the second trimester. Johnson expressed her hope that this new policy will promote openness regarding miscarriage and support for those grieving.
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In summary, New Zealand’s new bereavement leave law for couples facing miscarriage marks a significant step forward in recognizing the emotional toll of pregnancy loss. It sets a hopeful precedent for other nations to consider similar measures to support grieving parents.