ICYMI: Rep. Hanson and Senator Oban on Paid Family Leave

(BISMARCK, ND) – An editorial written by Representative Karla Rose Hanson (D-Fargo) and Senator Erin Oban (D-Bismarck) raises the question; why don’t all North Dakotans get the same paid leave that the legislators get?

Key Points:

• Both Representative Hanson and Senator Oban have had personal life events that required time away from work, they are aware that all North Dakotans face this challenge and proposed legislation that would grant workers the same opportunities they were afforded as legislators. However, the bill they introduced failed in the House.
• Nationally, less than 15% of private-sector worker have access to paid family leave for these urgent life events. Research surrounding paid leave programs finds this benefit would improve employee performance and reduce turnover rate.
• North Dakota continues to face workforce shortages. Research shows paid leave programs improve retention and reduce re-training costs. This program would help attract workers, and young families, to fill our many open jobs.
• Representative Hanson, Senator Oban and every member of the Dem-NPL is committed to “working toward and building support for pro-family policies like paid family leave and voting ‘yes’ for North Dakotans, not just ourselves.”