.png){kind=logo}
DENVER, CO– Majority Leader Daneya Esgar and House JBC Democrats released the following statements after Governor Polis announced that state employees will be eligible for a paid family medical leave program effective January 2021.
“State employees always go the extra mile to care for our state, and that’s never been more true than during this pandemic,” said Majority Leader Daneya Esgar, D-Pueblo, “I’m proud to say that we’ll be returning the favor by ensuring that these public servants have access to paid family and medical leave as soon as possible. State employees look out for our safety, tend to our public lands, keep our roads and bridges working and care for some of the state’s most vulnerable populations. They’re my friends and neighbors here in Southern Colorado and I’m proud that we’ll be able to deliver for them.”
“This fall, I was heartened and excited to see voters approve a robust paid family leave program that will allow all Coloradans the time they need to care for loved ones and themselves,” said JBC Vice Chair Rep. Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “The Governor’s announcement today means that hardworking state employees will be able to access these crucial benefits even sooner. I look forward to working in the Joint Budget Committee to making sure this becomes a reality. State employees always have our backs, and I’m proud to say that we have theirs too.”
“State employees have been on the frontlines of our state’s fight against COVID-19,” said JBC Member Leslie Herod, D-Denver. “From taking on crucial public health work to serving our veterans, keeping our roads plowed during winter storms and protecting our air and water, these public servants are always there for us when we need them. This family and medical leave program will allow them to be there for their loved ones when they need it most. I’m ready to get to work finding ways to fund this important program. State Employees deserve our support, and I’m glad to work with the governor to make this much discussed policy initiative a reality.’