SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) — Illinois advocates are renewing calls for a statewide paid family and medical leave program as momentum grows across the country for expanded worker protections.

During a national convening in Washington, D.C., lawmakers and labor advocates highlighted a wave of recent paid leave victories and outlined a strategy aimed at securing protections in all 50 states. Organizers also released a report showing dozens of paid leave policy wins across 42 states and Washington, D.C. since negotiations surrounding the federal Build Back Better plan.

In Illinois, the Illinois Time to Care Coalition has introduced legislation that would create a comprehensive paid family and medical leave program, joining 14 states and the District of Columbia that have already enacted similar laws.

Supporters say the proposal would allow workers to take paid time off to care for a new child, recover from serious illness or care for family members without losing income. Advocates argue the issue has gained bipartisan attention nationwide as more states move forward with programs.

The national movement has seen several major developments in recent months. Virginia became the first Southern state to enact paid family and medical leave, while Colorado launched a policy specifically supporting families with babies in neonatal intensive care units. Maine, Minnesota and Delaware recently began delivering benefits through newly created programs.

Meanwhile, lawmakers in Ohio and Pennsylvania have also advanced legislation this year, signaling continued momentum for the issue across the country.