Governor Polis Calls For Family Leave Program That Fits the Needs of Colorado Workers
For Immediate Release
January 9, 2020
Contact: Olga Robak
Denver, CO – In his second State of the State address, Governor Polis continued to show support for a strong paid family and medical leave program for Colorado.
FAMLI Coalition Co-Chairs Judith Marquez of 9to5 Colorado and Debra Brown of Good Business Colorado issued the following statement in response to the State of the State address.
“The Governor’s remarks today about a strong paid leave program leave us confident we can work together to create an innovative program that will benefit all Coloradans, keep premiums affordable and equitable, and get off the ground quickly. We believe the Task Force report laid out a clear path to such a program, while still giving legislators the opportunity to shape the details of the plan to ensure it helps those who need it most.
From his work on the Congressional level supporting a national, social insurance program to earmarking funds as Governor for a paid family leave for state employees, the Governor has been a champion of policy that benefits working Colorado families. He understands paid leave is an attractive benefit for many workers, so offering it statewide would level the playing field for small businesses who can’t afford to offer it now. With the successful launch of Washington’s state program just this month, we’ve seen low-risk solutions work in other states, and we urge legislators and the Governor to build upon those successes for our state. Allowing all Coloradans, from those who are self-employed to those in large companies, to participate in such a program gives them the opportunity to focus on finding a career they want instead of a job they desperately need for the benefits.
As we explore all possibilities of how to create, maintain, and administer a strong paid family and medical leave program, the FAMLI Coalition is determined to work with stakeholders, experts, and legislators to craft a policy that will be good for Colorado and good for its workers.”
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