U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following statement today after President Obama announced a plan to expand paid sick and family leave for working families. In New Mexico, there are an estimated 270,000 workers currently without paid sick leave.
"The fact that we are the only developed country in the world that does not offer paid maternity leave is unacceptable. We shouldn't force working moms and dads to choose between a paycheck and caring for a newborn. Workplace flexibility and practices like paid sick and family leave make good business sense and are cost-effective by reducing turnover, increasing productivity, and creating a healthier workforce. When employers provide their workers with an environment that supports commitments to children and their loved ones, everyone benefits."