NCJW Applauds Introduction of FAMILY Act in Congress, Calls for Swift Passage of National Paid Family and Medical Leave Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, September 16, 2025

PRESS CONTACT: press@ncjw.org

Landmark legislation would create the first-ever national paid family and medical leave program for working people

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) celebrated the reintroduction of the Family and Medical Insurance Leave (FAMILY) Act in both chambers of Congress. This groundbreaking legislation, sponsored by Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), would establish the nation’s first comprehensive paid family and medical leave insurance program, providing partial income reimbursement for workers facing serious health conditions, undertaking family caregiving responsibilities, or welcoming new children. This landmark legislation has been re-introduced in every Congress since 2013.

“The FAMILY Act represents a fundamental step toward ensuring that no worker has to choose between their health, their family, and their financial security,” said Darcy Hirsh, Senior Director of Government Relations and Advocacy at NCJW. “Guided by the Jewish value of kavod habriyot — respect and dignity for all human beings — NCJW recognizes that paid family and medical leave is not just good policy, it’s a moral imperative. For the parents who have just had their first child, for the daughter taking care of her ailing parent, or for the person diagnosed with an illness just trying to get the care he needs without losing his job — the FAMILY Act provides the space to provide dignified care without worrying about paying bills.”

The FAMILY Act would provide workers with up to 85 percent of their normal wages for 12 weeks to address any serious health conditions, including pregnancy and childbirth recovery; care for seriously ill family members including children, parents, spouses, or domestic partners; bond with new children through birth or adoption; or handle military caregiving and leave situations. The program is modeled on successful state-level initiatives and funded through small, shared contributions from workers and employers.

Currently, the vast majority of American workers lack access to paid family leave through their employers. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly three in four private sector employees do not have access to paid family leave, forcing millions to choose between caring for their families and receiving their paycheck.

“For 132 years, NCJW has fought for policies that support women, children, and families,” continued Hirsh. “The FAMILY Act embodies our commitment to economic justice and gender equity. When workers have the security of paid leave, entire families benefit — children receive better care, parents can recover from illness, and communities grow stronger.”

The introduction of the FAMILY Act comes at a critical time when American families continue to struggle to pay their bills, put food on the table, and provide for their families as costs rise and economic challenges continue. NCJW calls on Congress to prioritize swift passage of this vital legislation to provide immediate relief to working families nationwide.

To join NCJW in demanding Congress pass the FAMILY Act, click here.

The FAMILY Act: Fast Facts

The Family and Medical Insurance Leave (FAMILY) Act would provide:

• Up to 12 weeks of partial income replacement, up to 85% of wages
• Coverage for serious health conditions, including pregnancy and childbirth
• Care for seriously ill family members (children, parents, spouses, domestic partners)
• Bonding with new children through birth or adoption
• Military family caregiving and leave situations

Who benefits from the FAMILY Act?

• All covered workers, regardless of employer size
• The bill will be particularly beneficial for single parents and low-wage workers
• The bill helps women and people of color who disproportionately bear the cost of caregiving

Why is a national paid family leave program needed?

• 73% of private sector workers lack paid family leave through employers
• Millions forced to choose between family care and economic security
• Current Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides only unpaid leave and only  for eligible workers

How does paid family leave boost the economy?

• Reduces employee turnover and recruitment costs for employers
• Keeps families out of poverty during health and caregiving crises
• Supports women’s workforce participation and economic security

Why is this an NCJW priority?

• Paid family and medical insurance leave is an integral part of boosting women of all backgrounds, and supporting our economy through moral, essential financial supports to ensure that people get the care they deserve without worrying about their bills.
• Each of us should be able to achieve economic stability while caring for our health and family. Paid leave is a critical part of making that goal a reality. 
• NCJW advocates have fought for women in the workplace, helping to pass the 1963 Equal Pay Act, 2009 Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, and the Family and Medical Leave Act. Today, NCJW mobilizes for policies to close the gender wage gap and ensure paid leave for all workers.

###

National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a 132-year-old Jewish feminist civil rights organization working for equity and justice for women, children, and families in the United States and Israel. Through the efforts of our 250,000 grassroots advocates and 48 local sections, NCJW combines education, direct service, and advocacy to effect lasting social change at the local, state, and national levels. We approach our work through the intersections of gender, economic, and racial justice to center those most impacted in a uniquely Jewish way. Learn more at NCJW.org and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.