Duckworth, Noem and Bordallo Introduce MOM Act to Extend Maternity Leave for Women in the Military

Press Release

Today, House Armed Services Committee Members Congresswomen Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kristi Noem (R-SD) and Madeleine Bordallo (D-Guam) introduced the MOM Act, which will extend maternity leave for women serving in the military from 6 weeks to 12 weeks. The legislation will align access to maternity leave for female Service Members with the Family and Medical Leave Act guidelines available to federal employees.

"For working moms, going back to work after having a child is one of the most difficult days," said Rep. Noem. "But when you put on fatigues instead of a business suit and return to a military base halfway around the world instead of an office around the corner, that day can be even more difficult. Extending maternity leave and offering more time to recover from childbirth is the least we can do for these mothers who have not only made sacrifices for their children, but for their entire country."

"This Mother's Day, more women will be contributing to our military than ever," said Rep. Duckworth. "They are serving with distinction in Afghanistan and at duty posts around the world. They are serving in combat positions that were just opened to them. Women are an irreplaceable piece of the strongest and most capable military in the world. Mothers in the military inevitably face separation from their children when they are deployed and serving our nation around the globe. Extending maternity leave for these women is the least we can do for those who sacrifice so much for our country."

Source