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The pandemic has highlighted many issues, with one of the most pressing being the necessity for paid time off. As businesses closed, countless families found themselves in dire situations, struggling with childcare and caring for vulnerable relatives. Those who contracted COVID-19 also faced challenges requiring care. Federal paid leave could have significantly eased these burdens.
Remarkably, the United States stands alone as the only affluent nation without a federal paid leave policy. Currently, only 21% of American workers have access to paid family leave, and fewer than half have paid medical leave. A recent survey reveals that support for paid leave crosses party lines, with both Democrats and Republicans recognizing its importance and expressing willingness to fund it.
The advocacy group Paid Leave for All Action conducted a survey of 1,070 likely voters in seven key battleground states: Arizona, Nevada, Florida, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Georgia. The results indicate nearly unanimous support for paid leave, with voters insisting that it be included in any infrastructure package. These states played pivotal roles in the 2020 elections, and the data shows that senators advocating for federal leave policies tend to perform better during elections.
“The pandemic has changed everything,” stated Alex Carter, director of Paid Leave for All Action. “What used to be a gap in our infrastructure has now been magnified. People recognize its critical role in our resilience and economic growth during crises, whether from global pandemics or serious health issues.”
In a time when agreement is hard to come by across political lines, the necessity for paid leave stands out. During the height of the pandemic, voters in battleground states showed overwhelming support for paid leave. As we approach the 2022 Senate elections, that support remains strong.
According to the survey, 84% of battleground voters favor paid leave, with support peaking among Democrats and Independents (96% and 81%, respectively) and 74% of Republicans also expressing approval. If even Trump supporters see the value in this policy, it underscores its significance. Additionally, 91% of undecided voters back paid leave, with nearly half indicating strong support.
Enhanced federal paid leave policies could transform the lives of many American families, regardless of political affiliation. A large number of women had to leave the workforce to care for children or elderly relatives during shutdowns. Women frequently bear the brunt of caregiving and often earn less, making job abandonment a practical choice. We must also remember essential workers—many from Black and Latinx communities—who live in multigenerational households and faced the risk of spreading COVID within their families. President Biden’s American Families Plan currently proposes up to 12 weeks of paid leave for qualifying workers, but this may overlook caregivers, who often need it most.
A report from Human Impact Partners found that if Walmart had implemented an adequate paid sick leave policy, they could have prevented over 7,600 COVID-19 cases and 133 deaths. Federal paid leave would enable families to care for sick relatives without jeopardizing their financial stability. With around 600,000 COVID deaths and many individuals suffering long-term effects, the necessity for caregivers to take time off becomes evident.
People should have the ability to care for their families during a pandemic without financial repercussions. This need extends beyond crises; 88% of voters believe paid leave should be available for welcoming a new child. Anyone familiar with maternity leave in this country knows it often falls short, while paternal leave is even less adequate. Families should be entitled to at least 12 weeks of paid leave postpartum, applicable to both parents—not just the birthing individual. There should also be provisions for parents requiring time off before childbirth for various reasons.
Support for paid leave extends to caring for sick family members, with 95% of undecided voters in favor, alongside 94% of Democrats, 90% of Independents, and 81% of Republicans. My friend Jamie’s father is in his late 70s, dealing with numerous health issues. While his mother provides care, she must also work to support them. When he has appointments, she has to take time off, risking their financial situation if prolonged care is needed. Improved paid leave policies would allow her to focus on his well-being without the fear of financial instability.
From a political perspective, this data should guide Senate priorities. The states surveyed will influence the balance of power in the Senate. According to the poll, Democrats fare better when endorsing paid leave, while Republicans who oppose it risk losing support. Moreover, many voters would be more inclined to re-elect senators who advocate for paid leave.
Historically, Republican resistance to paid leave has stemmed from concerns about taxes and the impact on businesses. However, the survey reveals that 69% of respondents would support paid leave even if it meant a slight increase in taxes. If Republicans wish to retain their voter base, aligning with paid leave initiatives could be imperative, regardless of costs.
As the U.S. strives to ensure the safety of parents and families, establishing a standard federal paid leave is vital. This is as essential to American infrastructure as developing new roads or enhancing public transit. The government must cease letting families down; federal paid leave is the way forward.
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In summary, the strong bipartisan support for federal paid leave reflects a pivotal moment for American families. The pandemic has underscored the necessity of comprehensive leave policies, which can alleviate financial stress during critical times. As voters across party lines demand action, it is crucial for lawmakers to prioritize and implement these policies for the welfare of all citizens.