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ALBANY, NY (WENY)– Tuesday, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced agreements with three of the largest state unions– providing 12 weeks of paid family leave for more than 150,000 New York State employees.
“Young families shouldn’t have to try to make that tough decision between having a paycheck or having to spend time with their kids,” Hochul said.
The agreement will apply to public workers who are part of the labor unions– the Civil Service Employee’s Association, the Public Employee’s Federation and the United University professionals.
These unions represent a variety of workers in state agencies such as the State Department of Motor Vehicles and the State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities.
The leave will take effect if state union members ratify the agreement. The Civil Service Employee’s Association ratified the agreement and the other unions will likely ratify in the coming months.
Some state employees said paid parental leave is more than just a policy, it supports parents.
“When people like me have the freedom to prioritize our family responsibilities, we return to work with renewed focus, dedication and loyalty,” said Allison Konderwich, New York State Department of Labor Employee.
The Governor also emphasized during her announcement Tuesday, this benefit is extended equally to moms and dads.
“We want to make sure that we break down the stigma or any barriers to men feeling that they cannot take the time to be with their child because they will never regret a moment of it. They’ll never regret being home,” Hochul said.
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