In May 2025, experts and advocates rallied for the expansion of paid family leave, highlighting that the U.S. lags behind much of the developed world in supporting workers during critical life events such as childbirth, adoption, or caregiving for a sick relative. Currently, only about 20% of workers in the U.S. have access to paid family leave, leaving many people, particularly those in lower-income or hourly jobs, to face the impossible choice of either taking unpaid leave or foregoing time with family during the most important moments of their lives.
The Current Landscape
Despite the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) of 1993, which provides up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave, there is no federal mandate for paid leave. This leaves a significant gap in support for workers during critical times. Only 27% of private-sector employees have access to paid family leave through their employer, and access is even less common among lower-wage earners. In fact, among the lowest 10% of earners, only about 5% have access to paid family leave. Additionally, only 14% of part-time workers have paid family leave, compared to 31% of full-time workers. These disparities highlight the need for a national paid family leave program that ensures all workers have access to this essential benefit.
The Impact on Families
The lack of paid family leave creates a significant financial burden for families, often forcing them to dip into savings or rely on credit. In a survey of 2,275 mothers with children up to age five, about half said they took unpaid parental leave, and those who took any leave lost an average of $9,480 in income. This financial strain can lead to increased stress and negative health outcomes for both parents and children. The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued a policy statement supporting universal paid family and medical leave, arguing it is critical for improving the health and financial security of children and families. The policy statement highlights the need for federal action to ensure all families can benefit from paid leave.
A Path Forward
President Biden’s 2025 budget proposal includes a national paid family and medical leave program that would provide 12 weeks of leave to workers for new child bonding, their own or their loved ones’ illness, military deployment, and safe leave. The program would be administered by the Social Security Administration, aiming to provide equitable access to paid leave for all workers. Additionally, the More Paid Leave for More Americans Act, introduced by Representatives Stephanie Bice (R-OK) and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), seeks to expand access to paid family leave across the country through state-driven, innovative, and sustainable solutions. The bill includes the Paid Family Leave Public-Private Partnerships Act, which would establish a three-year pilot program providing competitive grants to states that establish paid family leave programs in partnership with private companies.
Conclusion
Implementing a national paid family leave program is not just a matter of fairness; it is an investment in the well-being of American families and the economy. By providing workers with the support they need during critical life events, we can promote healthier families, reduce financial stress, and improve overall productivity. It is time for the U.S. to join other developed nations in recognizing the importance of paid family leave and to take action to ensure that all workers have access to this essential benefit.
