Governor Evers Says Republians Should be Open to the Idea of a Family Leave Program

Friday, February 17th, 2023 -- 9:01 AM

(AP) Democratic Gov. Tony Evers said Thursday that Republicans in control of the Wisconsin Legislature should be open to his idea of funding a new three-month family leave program covering most private-sector workers, arguing that it would help with recruitment and retainment efforts.

Evers, who toured scissors-maker Fiskars Group in Middleton the morning after unveiling his budget, downplayed comments from Republican leaders dismissing the idea of guaranteeing 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave. “We’re hopeful we’ll get some traction around this,” Evers said. “Let’s start having the conversation.”

Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu said Wednesday that it was “very doubtful” Republicans would support Evers’ plan, which comes with a price tag of $240 million in state funding to launch in 2025. Employer and employee contributions would fund the initiative after the first year.

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