30 Apr 2025 BPC Action Applauds Introduction of Bipartisan Paid Family and Medical Leave Legislation in Paid Parental Leave
Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) Action applauds the House Bipartisan Paid Family Leave Working Group and its leadership for introducing two pieces of legislation—the Interstate Paid Leave Action Network (I-PLAN) Act and the More Paid Leave to More Americans Act—to expand and improve access to paid leave benefits. This follows the announcement of discussion drafts in December 2024, after which the working group solicited feedback from key stakeholders, experts, and the broader community—a collaborative process that has now culminated in the introduction of durable legislation to help strengthen the economy and support American families.
A majority of private sector workers still lack access to essential caregiving benefits. Yet, as a 2024 BPC Action poll shows, voters across the political spectrum support policies that help balance work/life needs. These bills mark a significant step forward in addressing these needs and enhancing the efficiency of paid leave programs nationwide:
- The Interstate Paid Leave Action Network (I-PLAN) Act establishes a formal multistate network to assist states in coordinating paid family and medical leave programs, offering technical assistance, and promoting best practices to help workers and employers navigate the current patchwork of paid family and medical leave laws. This legislation incorporates Bipartisan Policy Center recommendations and feedback gathered during the draft phase to ensure greater state coordination.
- The More Paid Leave for More Americans Act incentivizes states, through a competitive grant program, to establish paid family leave programs using a public-private partnership model. This program will expand access to paid leave benefits, foster innovation in program administration, and promote harmonization by requiring eligible states to engage with the I-PLAN framework.
“While the rise in state-level paid family leave laws has provided access to this critical benefit for millions of workers, the distinct requirements of each program present compliance challenges for multistate employers. BPC Action is proud to endorse the I-PLAN Act and the More Paid Leave for More Americans Act to improve the efficiency of existing paid family and medical leave programs, help establish new paid family leave programs, and promote greater uniformity across states. We commend the House Bipartisan Paid Family Leave Working Group, chaired by Reps. Stephanie Bice (R-OK) and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), for their leadership and commitment to addressing this issue that impacts so many Americans,” says Michele Stockwell, president of Bipartisan Policy Center Action.
BPC Action is encouraged by the continued cross-party collaboration on this issue and applauds the working group’s ongoing commitment to advancing bipartisan paid family leave solutions in the 119th Congress.
