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Initial estimates from the administration suggest its proposal for paid leave will cost about $225 billion over 10 years. This is much lower than previous estimates of the FAMILY Act.
The vast scope of the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for a comprehensive national paid leave benefit.
The COVID-19 pandemic has shown people respond differently to a health shock. For workers experiencing extended hardship, return to work services are vital.
When the Families First Coronavirus Response Act ends on December 31, millions of Americans will be faced with the dilemma of losing a paycheck or going to work while sick.
Older workers talk in a warehouse
Paid medical leave benefits could help newly ill and injured workers know their rights and stay in the workforce.
Evidence shows paid time off for workers with serious medical conditions, combined with evidence-based return to work services, is key to supporting workers’ health, public health, and economic security.
Research shows paid sick leave reduces the spread of disease, lowers worker absenteeism, and supports preventive medicine.
"We need to create the infrastructure within government to enable flexibility in times of crisis."
Lawmakers in dozens of states have reduced pension benefits for workers including firefighters and teachers.
Without effective policies in place, raising the EEA or keeping the EEA at 62 and reducing benefits could create hardship for many older Americans.

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