Helping with Equal Access to Leave and Investing in Needs for Grieving Mothers and Fathers Act; HEALING Mothers and Fathers Act
Summary
The "Helping with Equal Access to Leave and Investing in Needs for Grieving Mothers and Fathers Act" (HEALING Mothers and Fathers Act) aims to amend the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) of 1993 to include leave for the spontaneous loss of an unborn child. It also provides a refundable personal credit for individuals who have suffered a stillbirth. The bill defines "spontaneous loss of an unborn child" and outlines provisions for leave, notice, and certification for both private and civil service employees.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would expand FMLA to provide job-protected leave for employees and their spouses experiencing the spontaneous loss of an unborn child. It would also offer financial relief through a refundable tax credit to individuals who have experienced a stillbirth. These changes aim to provide support and recognition for the emotional and financial burdens associated with such losses.
Potential Benefits
- Provides job-protected leave for grieving parents after the spontaneous loss of an unborn child.
- Offers a refundable tax credit to individuals who have experienced a stillbirth, providing financial assistance.
- Recognizes the emotional and physical impact of pregnancy loss on both parents.
- Extends similar leave benefits to civil service employees.
- Allows for intermittent or reduced leave schedules when medically necessary.
Potential Disadvantages
- May increase administrative burden for employers to verify and manage leave requests related to spontaneous loss of an unborn child.
- The definition of "spontaneous loss of an unborn child" may be subject to interpretation and potential legal challenges.
- The financial impact of the refundable tax credit on government revenue is not specified.
- Potential for increased costs to businesses due to employees taking leave, particularly smaller businesses.
- The bill does not address the length of leave provided, which may be insufficient for some individuals.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution (Preamble) by aiming to provide support and relief to individuals and families experiencing the loss of an unborn child. It also relates to Congress's power to lay and collect taxes (Article I, Section 8) through the provision of a refundable tax credit. The amendment to the Family and Medical Leave Act falls under Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce, as the FMLA generally applies to businesses engaged in such commerce.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).