Children's Commissioner Advocates for Paid Leave for Parents of Seriously Ill Children

Why it matters locally: While a federal policy of paid leave for parents of seriously ill children would apply nationwide, Colorado currently has its own Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program, which provides paid leave benefits for various family and medical reasons, including caring for a seriously ill family member.

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Dame Rachel de Souza, the Children's Commissioner, has endorsed proposals advocating for paid leave for parents whose children face serious illnesses. She supports calls for increased assistance for both parents and other caregivers in these situations. The Commissioner's position aligns with broader efforts to provide more robust support systems for families navigating the challenges of serious childhood illness. Advocates for such policies highlight the financial and emotional burdens families encounter when a child requires extensive medical care.