Representative Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) has introduced a bipartisan bill extending parental leave for employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
The Supporting VA Families Act (H.R. 8041) gives VA employees four extra weeks of unpaid leave to care for newborn children.
Under current law, qualified employees are allowed 12 weeks of paid parental leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act.
"As a father, I know how precious those early days with a newborn are, especially for families balancing demanding careers," said Rep. Ciscomani in a press release. "Parents should have the ability to spend that time with their children," he added, highlighting that the legislative effort ensures "those who care for our veterans can be present for their families, just as they are for our nation every day."
Representative Janelle Bynum (D-OR), the bill's cosponsor, echoed in his remarks, commenting, "VA workers are on the frontlines of delivering on our country’s promises to veterans." "They deserve access to family leave to ensure the VA can retain staff and keep providing high-quality care to our veterans."
In December, Rep. Ciscomani and Representative Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ) joined forces to introduce the Coordinating and Aligning Records to Improve and Normalize Governance (CARING) for Our Veterans Health Act, which aims to improve the tracking of medical documentation for veterans receiving care from community providers.
Approximately 75% of veterans reportedly return to medical centers for additional care after receiving services arranged through the Department of Veterans Affairs. The legislation addresses concerns about the exchange of medical documentation between providers.
"Veterans deserve a system that works for them — not one that leaves them waiting on paperwork or caught between providers," Ciscomani stated.
