Allegheny County is one step closer to requiring paid parental leave for workers.
The Allegheny County Health Department Board of Health unanimously voted to move forward a proposal that would require employers to provide up to 18 weeks of paid parental leave.
Supporters say the policy could improve maternal and infant health while easing financial stress for families.
Jada Shirriel with A Healthy Start says the change would especially help Black mothers and babies across the county.
“Research consistently show that access to paid, parental leave improves maternal mental health . . . supports infant bonding development, increases breast feeding rates, reduces infant mortality and gives family the time they need to recover,” said Shirriel.
The amendment now heads into a 30-day public comment period before returning to the board in July.
