As a state senator, I believe in the importance of building a strong foundation for Maine’s future. As a father, I want to make sure Maine is a place where our kids can live and work and plant roots of their own for the foreseeable future. I want to share a personal story about my daughter Kelly, who resides in Rhode Island, a state that has embraced the concept of Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML).

Joseph Rafferty

Since the birth of her last child in December, Kelly has benefited from this invaluable program. Her experience has made me acutely aware of the urgent need for Maine to pass a similar policy. If we want to compete with neighboring states and retain our young workforce, PFML is an essential piece of that puzzle.

Regrettably, Maine stands as the only state in New England without any form of leave for its workers. It is disheartening to see our state lag behind while others take significant strides in supporting their citizens and workers during pivotal life events. LD 1964, sponsored by my friend and colleague, Sen. Mattie Daughtry, is a bill that has been meticulously crafted over the past two years that embodies the recommendations of the Commission to Develop a Paid Family Medical Leave Benefits Program and offers a compromise proposal that will empower Maine’s businesses and families to prosper.

The journey toward LD 1964 has involved extensive outreach efforts, with the bill sponsors embarking on a statewide tour. They engaged with over 300 businesses, organizations and individuals. They discussed and heard feedback on various aspects of the proposal such as maternal health, early childhood development, elder care, and disability rights, as well as the potential impact on and benefit to small businesses. This collaborative approach ensures that the proposed legislation addresses the unique needs and concerns of all Mainers.

Paid Family and Medical Leave is not a luxury; it is a critical investment in the well-being of our workers, families, businesses, and ultimately, our economy. By providing individuals with the necessary time, flexibility, and security to navigate life’s most disruptive events, PFML safeguards our families’ financial stability, employment, and health insurance.

The benefits of PFML extend to a variety of situations that require our attention and support. It covers the joyous occasions like the birth, adoption, or fostering of a child, ensuring that parents can cherish those precious early moments without the burden of financial strain. It also provides a safety net when we face the challenges of supporting sick or dying loved ones or caring for aging family members who deserve our care and attention.

Paid Family and Medical Leave also acknowledges the realities of recovery from surgery, accidents, substance use disorders, and other health challenges. It supports families during the process of preparing for or transitioning back from a family member’s military deployment. It even addresses the immediate safety needs of those affected by domestic or sexual violence. These are the critical moments when Mainers need to prioritize family and health, and we must ensure that they can do so without jeopardizing their livelihoods.

The urgent need for paid leave in Maine is undeniable. A staggering 93 percent of Mainers support this program, and it is our duty as lawmakers to deliver on this overwhelming mandate. We cannot afford to delay any longer. The time has come to pass and fund paid leave for all Maine workers.

By embracing the principles of paid family and medical leave, we demonstrate our commitment to the well-being and success of Maine families. Let us invest in a brighter future by providing the support and security that Mainers deserve. Together, we can build a state where young people choose to stay, live, and work, confident that their families will thrive.

Joseph Rafferty is a member of the Maine State Senate representing District 34, Berwick, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, North Berwick and Wells. He can be reached at Joe.Rafferty@legislature.maine.gov or 207-287-1515. Sign up an email newsletter at mainesenate.org.