SANTA FE, N.M., Jan. 28, 2025 – The American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of health for all, joined members of the New Mexico PFML Coalition at the New Mexico State Capitol today to advocate for House Bill 11, also known as the Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) Insurance Act. This legislation would create and fund a PFML program to help people in New Mexico take paid time off work for family or medical reasons.
A similar bill passed the New Mexico Senate last year but fell short by two votes in the state House of Representatives. House Bill 11 would grant employees up to 12 weeks of paid leave to care for a new child or family member with a serious health condition or to manage their own medical needs. The coalition, led by the Southwest Women’s Law Center, believes the legislation would significantly enhance the lives of New Mexico families, businesses, and the New Mexico economy.
Roughly a quarter of people who work for private companies and a third of people who work for state and local governments have guaranteed access to paid family and medical leave, according to Voices for Healthy Kids, an American Heart Association initiative aimed at improving the health of children and adolescents by creating and supporting policies that promote healthy food and physical activity. Currently, Colorado, Connecticut, Washington D.C., Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Washington state have passed paid leave laws.
House Bill 11 would allow employees to pay into a PFML fund through payroll deductions, and employers would also contribute to the fund. The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions would administer the fund.
“No one should have to choose between their livelihood and caring for their loved ones,” said Alexandra Pedersen-Green, an Albuquerque nurse and one of many who joined the Association and the coalition at the Roundhouse today.
“Paid family and medical leave is a lifeline during life’s most critical moments, yet the U.S. is one of the few countries that doesn’t guarantee this essential support,” said Pederson-Green, who is also a member of the American Heart Association-NM board of directors.
Employees aren’t the only ones who benefit. PFML supports healthier pregnancies, better birth outcomes, and provides crucial family support during medical crises. Employers gain from wage savings during an employee’s leave, allowing them to invest in other areas or hire temporary replacements. The program would be especially beneficial for rural residents who often face long distances to access medical care.
“The federal government is not prioritizing paid family and medical leave, so New Mexico can and must take action to ensure workers can manage personal and family life events without worrying about losing their income or job,” said Mahesh Sita, government relations director for the American Heart Association in New Mexico. “By providing all workers with paid family and medical leave, New Mexico can ensure the next generation of children grows into healthy adults.”
More about the PFML Coalition can be found at nmpfml.org. Anyone who wishes to become an advocate for the American Heart Association, can sign up at https://yourethecure.org/
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries
Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org
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heart.org and stroke.org