Most of us remember where we were when the ruling on Dobbs vs. Jackson Women’s Health Organization was announced in June of 2022. Roe v. Wade was no more. And after the initial flurry of news reports, much of America wondered “What’s next?”
The historic ruling is now seen as one that further divided a nation that was already split on abortion and many other issues. While emotions and opinions run high — especially during this election season — we have incredible opportunities to work together and ensure that all women and families have the support they need to welcome precious children into this world.
Paid family leave is one such opportunity. It’s an issue that has common ground for conservatives and liberals alike, as there are good people on both sides of the aisle who want to see women and families succeed.
Did you know that a staggering 23% of all mothers go back to work within two weeks of giving birth? Think about that statistic for a moment. Almost one-fourth of American women don’t even have two weeks to bond with their baby at home. They return to work without having physically, emotionally, or mentally recovered from birth. This goes against not only medical advice, but in my opinion, basic pro-family values.
Paid family leave benefits both parents and babies. Studies show that early bonding is crucial for the long-term mental health and resilience of children, and women with at least 12 weeks of paid leave report fewer depressive symptoms and better overall mental health.
Can we have a strong federal paid leave policy and be financially responsible? Yes! The two are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they complement one another, as parents with paid leave stay connected to the workforce and have reduced reliance on public assistance.
United States Sens. Mike Lee of Utah and Marco Rubio of Florida have both led separate proposals allowing for parents to take one, two, or three months off after the birth or adoption of a child and then just retire later to pay back the costs.
Another approach that fellow Sens. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Kirsten Sinema of Arizona have proposed would allow parents to advance $5,000 from their Child Tax Credit (CTC) upon the birth or adoption of a baby and then just write off $500 less from their taxes for 10 years, paying back the costs.
Notice these plans are all optional, add no cost to the deficit, and put no mandates on businesses. It’s a “win-win,” not only for families but for society as a whole.
North Carolina has taken some important steps in the past year to support families. Thanks to the robust efforts of Senate Bill 20 to support mothers both during pregnancy and after birth, state employees now have paid family leave, along with other robust policies to support mothers, babies, and families.
On the federal level, I’m grateful for the leadership of US Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina in spearheading a bipartisan working group on paid family leave and am encouraged as they work on a new legislative proposal. I am also thankful to our state’s other US senator, Ted Budd, for his steadfast support for pro-family policies on Capitol Hill.
Parenting brings unique joys and challenges, especially in today’s uncertain financial climate. Together, we can create a culture of Life in North Carolina that truly supports families as they welcome the next generation — one baby at a time — and create a brighter future for all.
For more information on Paid Family Leave please visit www.paidleaveforfamilies.com