Paid maternity leave has become a standard benefit in many countries throughout the world; however, the United States is the only advanced economy that does not mandate maternity leave for its workers. Not only does the United States not mandate maternity leave – it also does not pay for it. Maternity leave is very important for the child, for the family, and for the economy. With women entering the workforce, they must be able to support themselves and their child(ren) while they are taking care of their new-borns. Without mandated and paid maternity leave, the mother’s may choose not to bear a child – which affects the economy and the population, and it will affect the relationship between the mothers, children, and the family as a whole.
