Having a baby in America? Good luck with your leave. If you have one.
The U.S. doesn't guarantee it. Only 27% of private sector workers get it, says the Department of Labor.
Most countries? They’re ahead of the curve. They offer paid maternity and paternity leave. They actually believe parents should be with their children as their lives begin.
But here, in America, you've got three options:
One, your employer might offer it. But rules vary wildly.
Two, your state might help. Ten states and D.C. have paid leave laws.
Three, short-term disability, if you're giving birth. Who needs dads around their children after all?
Some good news: Four more states plan to offer paid leave by 2026.
But here's the kicker: We're still way behind. Most developed countries figured this out long ago.
It's not just about bonding. It's about health, equality, stability, and supporting families. All this at a time when families are more stretched than ever and our young people are increasingly afraid to have kids. They think they can’t afford them. They think they won’t have enough support. Sometimes I can’t blame them.
So, what do you think? Should parental leave be a law? Or is it asking too much? And how should we handle all this.
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