Oregon led the nation with the first parental and family medical leave laws. However, many employees are unable to take advantage of these benefits because they cannot afford to go without a paycheck. Oregon employment laws have failed to keep up with the changing nature of our workforce. Consequently, Oregon workers lack the resources to balance work and family demands.
For most Oregonians today, a family’s financial security depends on both parents working and providing a paycheck. Changes in family circumstances- whether it’s the birth of a new child or serious illness of a family member- can cause financial instability and distress. Most Oregon workers do not have the luxury of paid leave and cannot forgo even one paycheck. These Oregonians must feel the pain of leaving a newborn child in day care or missing the last moments with a dying parent. When family leave time is needed, many Oregonians are forced to choose between their family and their job.
Oregon Family Leave Insurance will provide $300 per week for up to 6 weeks for time-off to care for a new child or ill family member. By providing partial wage replacement to these workers, Oregon Family Leave Insurance will enable many low- and moderate-income families, particularly women, to be at home during the crucial first months of life that are vital to bonding or to take care of a family member who has a life-threatening illness.
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