Abstract
The need to take time away from work to manage a serious illness, care for a loved one or welcome a new child is universal—and the ability do so with job protection is essential to promote equitable employment. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) entitles some employees to up to 12 weeks of protected, unpaid leave in these circumstances, but it is not accessible to all workers. Black, Hispanic and immigrant workers are disproportionately less likely to be able to use it.
To mark the 29th anniversary of FMLA, we’re sharing three policy actions that could eliminate or reduce inequities in this policy.