The Victories of the Paid Leave Movement – Will Legislative Wins Reach the Low Wage Workforce? 

The purpose of this webinar is to learn more about the latest developments related to implementation of paid leave laws – including earned sick days and family medical leave.   Implementation is everything that needs to be done after a law passes to make sure that eligible workers know they can get paid leave, learn how to get it, and are able to take action if they are denied leave.  It also includes ensuring that enforcement agencies are well-equipped to engage employers and employees in the implementation process; provide technical assistance to businesses, formulate community outreach strategies; and adopt a strategic enforcement plan.

A new report underscores how important implementation is in delivering on the promise of the law. New data reveal that California’s family leave program, enacted over a decade ago, has experienced a dramatic drop in awareness -- from 43 percent of voters in 2011 down to 36 percent in 2014.  Advocates who’ve fought hard to secure the laws around the country have come to appreciate what these startling figures suggest:  that passing the law is just the first step. While hard won, the laws really are just the kick off and much more needs to be done to achieve the goal of securing what workers need. 

Join this webinar to hear from national and local experts about how advocacy groups are organizing around implementation, what are the most pressing issues and emerging successes, and opportunities for action and investment.

Speakers:

• Jodie Levin-Epstein, CLASP
• Wendy Chun-Hoon, Family Values@Work
• Andrea Paluso, Family Forward Oregon
• Sherri Leiwant, A Better Balance
• Karina Bull, Seattle Office for Civil Rights