Too often, "women have to choose between working through unbearable pain, losing income they can’t afford to go without, or tapping into a limited number of sick days," writes Congresswoman Ansari.

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.blahaj.zone/post/43539526

Across the U.S., millions of women have to choose between working through unbearable pain, losing income they can’t afford to go without, or tapping into a limited number of sick days that then won’t be there if they have the flu or a doctor’s appointment. For low-wage workers, the choices are even more limited, with no work from home or sick leave options.

When I woke up on the floor of that bodega in 2015, I was 23-years-old and terrified that asking for time off would hurt my career. But now, I’m a member of Congress with the power to do something about it.

I’m introducing legislation to give workers up to 12 days of paid leave a year for reproductive health. It would cover period pain, yes, but also menopause symptoms, IVF, miscarriages, endometriosis flare-ups, and more. And it isn’t just for women—men could leverage the policy to get a vasectomy or fertility treatments. It’s a policy that’s inclusive, smart, and cost-effective.

  • Melobol@lemmy.ml
    5·
    2 months ago

    I’m not sure this is top of the list. But definitely on the list right after paid sick leave for everyone.
    So nobody who is sick needs to go to work just to keep their bills paid.

    • velmaOP
      1·
      2 months ago

      For women suffering from reproductive health issues, this is at the top of their list.

      • Melobol@lemmy.ml
        2·
        2 months ago

        Those women also suffering from not having paid sick leave. And paid sick leave for when the child is sick also.

        The difference is the scope. Sick leave affects 100% of the work force, 100% of the duration of their whole career.