California could become 1st state to offer parents 6 months of paid leave

SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) — California could become the first state in the nation to offer parents 6 months of paid leave.

New legislation has been introduced at the State Capitol. 

Research shows that longer paid maternity leave can increase the rate of mothers who attempt breastfeeding by as much as 18 percent. 

Governor Gavin Newsom says that’s one of the many benefits in the plan. 

Lawmakers still do not know how the state will pay to keep parents home longer with their baby. 

The bill, sponsored by the California Lawyers Association, will also offer parents job protection. 

Supporters argue workers are already paying for that. 

“Right now, employees pay into the paid family leave program with their own paychecks. There’s a great possibility that the funding is already there it just needs to be reworked in order to fund this bill.” 

The California Small Business Chamber has declined to take a position in the proposal until more funding details emerge.