Gillibrand faces obstacles in effort for paid family leave

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand faces an uphill battle in getting paid family leave for workers into law. Gillibrand, a Democrat, wants to make federal law the ability for workers to take extended time off for childbirth or to care for a sick family member. Employees would receive two-thirds pay while they’re away from work, paid for by a small tax to employers and employees, similar to social security reductions on a paycheck. It’s an investment in a better workplace, Gillibrand said. " If it’s an earned benefit, like social security, everyone has access to it. And it’s a small amount of money, it’s literally $2 a week for an average employee," she said. Gillibrand stopped by CenterState CEO’s annual meeting of regional businesses to stump for her measure. Many company executives declined to comment on the proposal, saying they didn’t know enough yet. Mark Pfisterer , from AmeriCU credit union, says his company would be open to paid leave. " There is a definite need and I think it all comes