House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024 Regular Session

Posted:	February 9, 2023 10:37 AM
From:	Representative Dan L. Miller and Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler
To:	All House members
Subject:	Recognizing the 30th Anniversary of the Family and Medical Leave Act

February 5, 2023, marked the 30th anniversary of the signing of the landmark Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) into law. Signed by President Clinton, the FMLA passed Congress with bipartisan support, and helped millions of American working families to be there for loved ones in the moments that mattered most. For the first time, the FMLA guaranteed that workers would not be forced to make an impossible decision between work and supporting their families. It provided workers protection to take leave to care for a new child, for a seriously ill spouse or parent, or even care for their own serious illness without the risk of losing their jobs. Over 50% of the workforce, millions of Americans, became entitled to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to care thanks to the FMLA. This resolution recognizes the historic advancements made possible by the FMLA, but also acknowledges the law’s shortcomings and the progress yet to be made. Unfortunately, there are still workers who are not covered by this benefit. Additionally, unlike most developed economies, the FMLA does not provide for the leave to be paid- a reality that limits its effectiveness and pushes many hardworking, often middle-class families to miss out entirely on the intent of the FMLA. While not perfect, the FMLA was an important, bipartisan step forward for millions of Americans. Please join us in recognizing this historic legislation on its 30th anniversary and acknowledging the work still to be done.
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Introduced as HR24