[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 103 (Friday, June 20, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1306]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           FEDERAL EMPLOYEES PAID PARENTAL LEAVE ACT OF 2008

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                             HON. JOE BACA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 19, 2008

  Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 5781, the 
Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act.
  The legislation gives Federal employees 4 weeks of paid leave for the 
birth or adoption of a child. Strong parental involvement plays an 
important role in raising a happy, healthy, and successful child.
  As the country's largest employer with over 1.8 million employees, 
the Federal Government should set the standard for family friendly 
workplace policies.
  I am proud to support this common-sense legislation, which promotes 
the family values that are at the core of our society while also 
setting an example for all employers across America to follow. Studies 
consistently show that paid parental leave is a smart business 
practice. Not only does paid leave help to reduce turnover, but it can 
also lead to increased productivity and better morale.
  Simply put, offering 4 weeks of paid parental leave is the right 
thing to do--especially now, when the Federal Government is struggling 
to recruit and retain qualified, young individuals. As the economic and 
industrial leaders of the world, the U.S. Government should be the 
standard bearer on issues relating to fairness and family.
  I urge the President to reconsider his misguided veto threat, and 
work with Congress to give more American parents the tools they need to 
build healthier and stronger families.
  Please vote in support of H.R. 5781.

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