In a groundbreaking move, New Zealand’s Parliament has unanimously approved legislation granting couples who endure a miscarriage or stillbirth three days of paid leave at full pay. This makes New Zealand the first nation to enact such a law, expanding bereavement benefits to include those who were planning to welcome a child through adoption or surrogacy.
Previously, employers were required to provide paid leave only in the case of stillbirths occurring after 20 weeks of pregnancy. The new legislation broadens this to encompass any loss of pregnancy, regardless of the gestational period. Lawmakers expect the measure to be enacted in the coming weeks.
Ginny Peterson, the Labour MP who championed the bill, expressed hope that it would empower women to request the time off they need to heal both physically and emotionally. “This bill will allow individuals to process their grief without having to resort to sick leave, as this loss is not a sickness. It is a significant emotional toll that requires time to navigate,” Peterson stated during an interview with local media.
The timing of this law is particularly relevant, as the ongoing pandemic has exacerbated the challenges faced by expectant parents. The issue of pregnancy-related employment discrimination is already prevalent, with many individuals facing setbacks in career advancement or job stability during this vulnerable time.
In contrast to New Zealand’s progressive approach, other countries have varying policies. For instance, in Australia, individuals who experience a miscarriage after 12 weeks can access unpaid leave, while in the UK, parents can claim paid leave following a stillbirth after 24 weeks. The United States, however, lacks any federal requirement for employers to provide leave for miscarriages.
According to data from the March of Dimes, approximately 10-15% of known pregnancies in the U.S. end in miscarriage during the first trimester, with a further 1-5% occurring in the second trimester. Peterson emphasized the importance of creating a supportive environment for individuals to grieve openly, stating, “We should not be fearful of our bodies.”
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In summary, New Zealand’s new legislation marks a significant step towards compassionate workplace policies, allowing couples time to grieve and heal after the loss of a pregnancy. This law not only underscores the emotional weight of such experiences but also sets a precedent for other nations to consider similar measures.