Calls for paid leave multiply 30 years after the adoption of the law on family and medical leave

Laura Barron-Lopez:

But the Family and Medical Leave Act, or FMLA, goes no further.

According to a recent analysis, 44% of American workers are not eligible.

To learn more, I am accompanied by Jocelyn Frye. She is President of the National Partnership for Women and Families.

Jocelyn, thank you very much for joining the “NewsHour”.

You called the law on family and medical leave revolutionary. What impact has it had on families over the past 30 years?

Jocelyn Frye, President, National Partnership for Women and Families: Well, first of all, thank you for inviting me.

I mean, it had an extraordinary impact. We estimate that, over 30 years, more than 463 million people have used FMLA at any given time. It is simply a staggering number. And I think it speaks to the need that was present 30 years ago and the ongoing need that families face just to make sure they can care for their loved ones in times of emergency.