17 Dec 2024 BPC Action Applauds Introduction of Key Bipartisan Paid Family Leave Policies in Paid Parental Leave
BPC Action applauds the House Bipartisan Paid Family Leave Working Group for the introduction of two bipartisan discussion drafts to expand and improve access to and the administration of paid family leave benefits. A majority of private sector workers lack access to crucial caregiving benefits, and as a recent BPC Action poll highlights, voters across the political spectrum are interested in policies that help balance work/life needs and create a stronger economy. The Interstate Paid Leave Action Network (I-PLAN) Act and the Paid Family Leave Public-Private Partnerships Act are a significant step forward in supporting working families and American businesses.
The Interstate Paid Leave Action Network (I-PLAN) Act would establish a center for best practices to help states develop paid leave programs and provide technical assistance, incorporating BPC recommendations to help workers and employers coordinate benefits amidst the current patchwork of paid family and medical leave laws across the United States.
The Paid Family Leave Public-Private Partnerships Act would incentivize states to establish paid family leave programs using both public and private solutions. This public-private partnership program aims to expand access to paid leave benefits for more workers, help existing state programs reach a broader workforce, and promote harmonization by requiring eligible states to participate in the I-PLAN.
“While the rise in state 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 support the Interstate Paid Leave Action Network (I-PLAN) Act and the Paid Family Leave Public-Private Partnerships Act, which would enhance the operational efficiency of existing paid family leave programs across states, support the establishment of new ones, and promote harmony among them. We applaud the House Bipartisan Paid Family Leave Working Group, chaired by Reps. Stephanie Bice (R-OK) and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), for their leadership on an issue impacting so many Americans,” says Michele Stockwell, president of Bipartisan Policy Center Action.
BPC Action is encouraged by the cross-party collaboration on this issue throughout the 118th Congress and these members’ unwavering commitment to serving American families and supporting our workforce. We stand ready to help continue forging bipartisan paid family leave solutions and look forward to working with the next Congress to propel these sensible policies forward.
