Third Way Statement on Bipartisan Paid Family Leave Legislation

WASHINGTON—Third Way Director of the Economic Program Zach Moller issued the following statement on the introduction of a bill by the House Bipartisan Paid Family Leave Working Group:

“Progress often seems daunting in Washington, but there is exciting bipartisan headway being made on providing paid leave to more working families in this country. We are thrilled to see the House Bipartisan Paid Family Leave Working Group, led by Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Stephanie Bice (R-OK), introduce a bill that will make much-needed progress on paid leave.

“As states continue to implement their own paid leave programs, we are seeing a fragmented system of laws and regulations that employers must navigate. The working group’s Interstate Paid Leave Action Network (I-PLAN) supports coordination between federal, state, and private programs—an effort which will make it easier for workers to access essential paid leave benefits. By harmonizing state efforts, I-PLAN also lays the groundwork for seamless implementation of comprehensive federal efforts in the future.

“Further, the working group’s grant program for paid leave solutions via public-private partnerships is a creative approach to helping more places offer, and workers access, this key benefit. Helping states develop their own innovative methods of providing paid leave will ensure more Americans can take the time they need to care for themselves and their families. This is an important step toward expanding access to paid leave today while leaving the door open to bigger federal initiatives down the road.

“The working group’s continued commitment to making progress on paid leave means more people across the country will better be able to navigate the demands of work and family. We applaud Representatives Houlahan and Bice for their leadership to work across the aisle and make progress on paid leave. The introduction of this bill is a culmination of over two years of hard work and the promise of more to come. We look forward to supporting the working group’s ongoing efforts and urge members of Congress to pass this important piece of legislation.”