WASHINGTON, DC - House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement after securing the inclusion of historic paid family and medical leave provisions as part of the Build Back Better Act:
“For far too long, American workers have had to make the impossible choice between providing for their families and caring for them. Now, because of the leadership and tireless advocacy of the people’s House, meaningful paid family and medical leave will be included as part of the Build Back Better Act. The Ways and Means Committee crafted a policy that will finally give workers and their families the peace of mind of knowing that when disaster strikes, they can rely on paid leave to avoid total crisis. We do this responsibly, fully paying for the means-tested program. This is a matter of financial security, worker productivity, and most of all, humanity.
“There are many programs and priorities that are central to rebuilding our economy to be stronger and more inclusive, but with paid leave, we will finally recognize that workers have responsibilities outside of their jobs and unlock their full potential. We also level the playing field for our nation’s small businesses who have struggled to provide this vital benefit, increasing worker satisfaction and employee retention.
“Today is a victory for so many, but we wouldn’t be here without the tireless advocacy of the paid leave advocates, the tenacity of our colleague Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro, and the dogged work of so many of the Ways and Means Committee members. I will continue to do whatever is necessary to get this provision signed into law by President Biden and give the American people the basic support they deserve."
