Congresswoman Susan Davis (D-CA), Ranking Member of the Personnel Subcommittee, released the following statement on the policy changes proposed by Navy Secretary Ray Mabus. In a speech at the U.S. Naval Academy on May 13, 2015, Secretary Mabus announced his intention to increase maternity leave from 6 to 12 weeks, expand the hours of childcare facilities by 4 hours, and increase assignment opportunities for women.
"Women have served with distinction, including under combat conditions. Yet it is clear that the Services are losing qualified and talented women because of the lack of workplace flexibility.
"Increasing maternity leave and childcare, as well as opening up more positions, will mean more women will decide to further their careers, to the benefit of our military and national security.
"I look forward to working with military leaders to ensure the Services can realize these objectives."