President Trump's reference to the need for paid family leave during his Feb. 28 speech reflects the growing dialogue between both Democrats and Republicans surrounding the issue. While politicians from both parties support paid family leave, positions differ on how the policy should be implemented. Sen. Kristin Gillibrand has introduced the FAMILY Act within the Senate, and is hopeful that Trump could support the bill. The FAMILY Act proposes the funding of a paid leave and medical insurance program, paid for jointly by workers and employers. Another option, Sen. Deb Fischer's Strong Families Act, would provide tax incentives for employers offering paid family leave.
See "Trump Urges Congress to Address Paid Family Leave", Tyrone Richardson, Bloomberg BNA, March 2, 2017