Amazon’s New Maternity + Paternity Leave Policy Is a Major Improvement
A reformation of America’s maternity leave policy has been a major topic of discussion for some time now. It’s even a talking point Hillary Clinton has chosen to put at the forefront of her presidential race. In the grand scheme of things, we still have a long way to go. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 12% of Americans have access to the paid parental leave but some companies are starting to go the extra mile to help make the transition easier. One startup is supplying a $2,000 stipend for maternity clothes and an online resource has even emerged to help moms figure out which companies offer the best maternity leave options. The newest company to back a more supportive maternity policy? Amazon.
In addition to unveiling their new IRL bookstore today, the company also revealed that their full-time and hourly paid employees who have been with the company for a least a year are now entitled to a new policy that includes up to 20 weeks of paid time off for new mothers. This reformed policy also allows moms to take off the month before the baby’s expected arrival (which is included in the 20 weeks). Additionally, new dads or the birth mother’s partner can also take off six weeks of paid leave to be with their new family. Amazon’s new policy is definitely a step in the right direction and it’s about time other big (and small) companies follow suit.
What’s your company’s maternity policy like? Share with us in the comments below.
(h/t The Verge, Photo via Getty)