AARP Statement on Paid Leave Benefits Included in Build Back Better Plan

WASHINGTON—AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer Nancy LeaMond issued the following statement following the announcement of paid leave benefits being included in the House of Representatives version of the Build Back Better legislation:

“Paid leave benefits would help millions of Americans support their loved ones while also protecting their financial security. AARP has repeatedly called for Congress to support working family caregivers and we urge you to seize the opportunity to include federal paid leave in the Build Back Better Act.

“Without the option to take paid leave, some caregivers cut back on their work hours or drop out of the workforce entirely. Family caregivers are less likely than parents to be offered paid leave by an employer – nearly 6 in 10 say their employer does not offer paid family leave. This makes it very difficult for them to fulfill their caregiving responsibilities, whether that’s being able to drive a loved one to a doctor’s appointment or take a few days off to help someone recovering from surgery.

“America’s 48 million family caregivers are the backbone of our nation’s long-term care system and play an essential role in caring for their loved ones. Including federal paid leave benefits in the Build Back Better Act is an important step in supporting the critical work they do.”