MILWAUKEE, Wis. – The Milwaukee Common Council has passed a paid parental leave policy, which would empower City of Milwaukee employees with 6 weeks of paid parental leave. Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic authored and sponsored the legislation.

“As the mother of two toddlers, it wasn’t long ago that I experienced the challenges of childbirth and raising a newborn. I know how critical this time is for a child’s development, a mother’s healing, and a family’s opportunity to bond – that’s why a paid parental leave policy is long overdue in Milwaukee and I’m so proud we got this done,” said Alderwoman Dimitrijevic. “While I was hopeful that we would be able to get 12 weeks of paid parental leave, this policy is a strong first step and will make a big difference in the lives of new parents and their babies. Until the federal government makes paid leave a priority, we need to take bold action at the local level to help families succeed.”

Currently, Milwaukee has no parental paid leave policy for city employees. If signed into law, the new policy will provide 6 weeks of paid leave to new parents, regardless of gender. Research overwhelmingly shows paid parental leave benefits, new families, by supporting early childhood development. Paid leave also improves outcomes related to poverty, health, and inequality. Parents who have benefited from paid leave policies report that they are better able to care for their newborn and more likely to follow recovery recommendations from their doctor.

“This plan is a bold investment in Milwaukee’s future that will give children their best chance to succeed. It’s a critical tool for reducing inequality and improving health outcomes; and it’s a strong economic investment that will attract the best and brightest to work for the City of Milwaukee,” added Dimitrijevic.

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