By: Ashley Stead
The U.S. remains the only industrialized nation without guaranteed paid family and medical leave. The federal FMLA offers only unpaid leave, excluding nearly 40% of workers and disproportionately affecting low-income employees.
While some employers provide paid leave, many workers—especially in low-wage and gig jobs—are left without support. In response, several states have implemented paid family and medical leave insurance programs, ensuring financial security for workers facing major life events.
Illinois has the chance to follow states like California and New York in adopting a similar program that benefits both employees and businesses. The WBAI PAC proudly supports this initiative, and we encourage our members to join the movement.
Read the full article in the WBAI Winter 2025 Newsletter on pages 12-13.