“We applaud President-elect Biden for recognizing the urgent need to allow workers to take time off work to care for themselves or a family member as the pandemic continues to spread. This groundbreaking recovery package builds on last year’s emergency provisions by providing paid sick days and paid leave to workers at small and large businesses as well as health care and first responders, who are on the frontlines during this pandemic.

We saw firsthand how paid sick days and paid leave contributed to flattening the curve and provided a critical lifeline for caregivers who are managing family and work responsibilities. The programs were especially critical for women and communities of color who were disproportionately impacted by the pandemic due to caregiving responsibilities and the lack of employer-provided paid leave and sick day benefits.

“We are grateful that the incoming administration is prioritizing emergency support, which is a downpayment for a national paid family and medical leave policy. The Partnership stands ready to work with the new Administration and Congress to advance this critical rescue package swiftly so Americans can receive the relief they need and enact a comprehensive policy in the future.”