Following today’s release of a new COVID-19 relief package by a bipartisan group of House and Senate negotiators, Debra L. Ness, President, National Partnership for Women & Families issued the following statement:

“We are deeply concerned that the newly released COVID-19 package would result in millions of workers losing access to emergency paid leave and paid sick days at the end of this year. Congress enacted these emergency benefits this spring when it was clear that too many workers can’t afford to take days off work when they get sick or to care for an ill loved one or child whose school is closed. Voters across the political spectrum support expanding paid leave and paid sick days, which experts and elected officials agree is critical to getting this virus under control.

“While this package and the investments in critical programs including child care and expanded unemployment are positive developments, we need to transform our caregiving model to provide the full range of necessary supports for families and caregivers. As pandemic cases continue to soar, and the lives and financial livelihood of women and people of color are disproportionately threatened, Congress must extend the emergency paid sick days and paid leave so American’s are not forced to decide between their health and financial security.”