Councilmember Silverman Releases Statement on Universal Paid Leave Amendment Act of 2016

Below is a statement from Councilmember Elissa Silverman (I-At Large), on Mayor Bowser returning the Universal Paid Leave Amendment Act of 2016 to the Council unsigned:

“I’m thrilled that the District of Columbia is now one step closer to helping working families by implementing paid family leave. I’m happy for the many people who shared very personal stories with me—often heartbreaking stories—about choosing between caring for a loved one or keeping a paycheck. This program will help them weather the critical life events when they need help the most. It also helps our employers, especially our small businesses, provide this important benefit.

The bill is now on its way to congressional approval, and I expect the legislation will become law soon. This is only the beginning; there is much work to be done to implement the legislation and make it truly a benefit to our workers, our businesses, and our city. I look forward to working with Mayor Bowser and my DC Council colleagues over the coming months to make sure we have the strongest program possible.

There are also many people to thank in this effort.  I want to thank Chairman Mendelson for his strong leadership on this historic legislation.  I also want to thank Councilmember Grosso and his staff for being true legislative partners over the past year and a half, and my Council colleagues for their support.

Most of all, I want to thank the thousands of District residents who testified, called, lobbied, petitioned, and rallied in support of paid family leave.  This bill would never have succeeded without your tireless efforts.”