It’s important that Maine’s hard-working families know that they can take time off if they are sick, have a newborn, or are caring for a loved one. A robust Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program in Maine would guarantee at least 12 weeks of leave for Mainers to get better if they get seriously sick, to care for an ill family member, to welcome a new child, and to take care of our military family needs.
We called hundreds of local working families to ask them their thoughts on PFML, and received powerful responses on what a statewide policy would mean for many of Maine’s working families.
Linda from Wiccasset told us her story on why PFML is critical for her, and many other working people across Maine.
“Last October, I was in the hospital for a week because my kidneys shut down, and was out of work for over a month,” said Linda.
With the current statewide family leave policy that is in place, some employees are forced to take unpaid leave, or come to work when they are ill.
“It’s important for people to still get paid while they’re not working, because there are bills that still mount up,” said Linda.
As this pandemic continues, it’s crucial Mainers are able to take time off to care for themselves or their loved ones without risking their paycheck. It’s time to ensure that Maine’s working families have access to PFML.