Sovereign Hager Legal Director | New Mexico Center on Law and Poverty
Paid Family and Medical Leave is a necessity for workers, according to advocates in New Mexico. House Bill 11, which will soon be voted on by the New Mexico House, proposes providing up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents and up to 6 weeks for those dealing with serious medical conditions or caregiving responsibilities. The bill aims to offer support without financial risk to families.
The proposed system would require employers with more than four employees, as well as the employees themselves, to contribute to a state-managed fund. This fund would cover the family and medical leave program, while new parent leave would be financed through the state general fund.
Supporters urge citizens to contact their representatives by phone or email to advocate for HB 11. They emphasize that "no one should have to choose between their paycheck and the health of their loved ones." A video titled "Labor & Love" has been released to illustrate the challenges faced by New Mexicans who juggle work and caregiving without adequate support.
Advocates argue that this legislation is a crucial step toward maintaining traditions of family care within the workforce. They encourage action from constituents to ensure that no one must choose between employment and caring for family members.
