Fischer, Kelly introduce bipartisan bill to incentivize employers to offer paid family leave

A tax credit would be established for employers that voluntarily elect to offer paid family leave to employees under bicameral, bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE) and U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) this week.

A five-year, 25 percent tax credit would be offered to employers that choose to offer up to 12 weeks of paid family leave to employees making up to $72,000 per year, or 60 percent of the current definition of a highly compensated employee, under the Strong Families Act of 2017.

“Today, we are introducing a new version of paid leave legislation I’ve worked on for years, and I’m proud to say we are doing it with bipartisan and bicameral support,” Fischer said. “For too many families, balancing responsibilities at home and in the workplace is a source of stress. I believe this legislation will positively impact people’s lives and help make paid leave available to more Americans.”

Biological and adoptive parents would have access to the family leave benefit for approved medical reasons outlined in the Family and Medical Leave Act. Employers could choose to offer less than 100 percent of employee salaries in family leave benefits, but the tax credit would be reduced as a result.

“Strong families make strong communities,” Kelly said. “Strong communities build a stronger country. I’m happy and proud to sponsor the Strong Families Act and incentivize the private sector to enact workplace policies that will make a difference for families.”

Fischer and Kelly introduced the bill with bipartisan support from U.S. Sen. Angus King (I-ME) and U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (R-AL).