President Biden is advocating for the institution of a national standard for paid family and sick leave, comparing the US to other developed nations globally which already have such policies in place. Many believe that implementing a federal benefit that supports new parents, or those recovering from illnesses or taking care of sick family members, is essential. Biden’s proposal initially called for guaranteeing 12 weeks of paid leave, but this has been revised to four weeks during negotiations over a social safety net bill. Senator Joe Manchin, a critical moderate vote, has raised concerns about the provision.

The US has no federal paid family or sick leave benefit. It is the only country among the 38 members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development that doesn’t provide some paid leave to new mothers. As it stands, absence from work due to seriously ill or to care for newborns or family members with serious health issues where granted, is unpaid. Policies for paid family and sick leave exist within some private employers and six states, along with Washington, DC. However, about 77% of workers do not have paid family leave, and 22% do not get paid sick leave, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Finally, if you’re in California and you need help regarding your claim process with the Employment Development Department, then it may be important for you to know how to get ahold of edd customer service. Understanding the best ways to communicate with the edd can help facilitate a quicker and more efficient processing of your claim. You can visit eddcaller.com for more details and informational guides on how to contact EDD.