Lawmakers propose 7 days paid leave for families who experience miscarriage or other unsuccessful parenthood attempts

A federal lawmaker is proposing a bill which would provide 7 days of paid leave for families who experience a miscarriage or other unsuccessful attempts at parenthood.

U.S. Representative Ayanna Pressley (D-MA-7), is the sponsor of H.R. 6103, otherwise known as the Support Through Loss Act. The bill is also sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL).

Under the bill, Americans would receive 7 days paid leave to "process and address their own health needs and the health needs of their partners during the period following a pregnancy loss, unsuccessful round of intrauterine insemination or of an assisted reproductive technology procedure, a failed adoption agreement, a failed surrogacy arrangement, or a diagnosis or event that impacts pregnancy or fertility."

In a statement release on the bill, Rep. Pressley says “Maya Angelou once said ‘there is no greater agony than bearing an untold story.’ And today, due to cultural stigma and a lack of awareness, many families and many people suffer in silence when experiencing a pregnancy loss. This must change. People experiencing pregnancy loss should know that they are not alone and they deserve to be met with care, compassion, support, and paid leave. The Support Through Loss Act is long-overdue legislation that provides resources, workforce support, and patient-centered care to help families recover and heal. I am grateful to Senator Duckworth and our advocates for their ongoing partnership in crafting this critical legislation.”

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