Businesses, economies and families benefit from paid family and medical leave; so could the entire U.S.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – February 3, 2026 – As the nation prepares to mark the anniversary (Feb. 5) of the Family and Medical Leave Act, the only federal law guaranteeing workers time off, a new report from the National Partnership for Women & Families (NPWF) shows that state paid leave policies are a triple win for the economy, businesses and families.

“Paid Leave Means a Stronger Nation,” NPWF’s annual resource on states’ need for paid leave, highlights how state programs support a diverse workforce – especially parents of young children and women-owned businesses – while strengthening the state’s economy.

• State paid leave programs ensure that workers can take time off to care for their families without sacrificing their jobs or financial security.
• Paid leave is good for small businesses, helping them retain employees, improve productivity and remain competitive. Nationwide, 79 percent of small business owners support a national paid leave program.
• Paid leave will help states meet the needs of an aging population, supporting older workers, people with disabilities and family caregivers so they can remain connected to the workforce.

“What we’ve found is proof that paid family and medical leave works,” said Jocelyn Frye, president of the National Partnership for Women & Families. “The success of this program shows what’s possible – and why it’s time to ensure every worker in the United States has access to paid leave.”

# # #

Read the state-specific press releases for the following states with paid leave: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island and Washington State.

Media Contact:

Gail Zuagar
Email
202-986-2600