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Ulster County has approved a new parental leave program, offering 12 weeks of paid leave to government employees. County Executive Jen Metzger signed the legislation, which applies to both mothers and fathers, allowing them to bond with a newborn or adopted child. The program aligns with the Federal Employee Paid Leave Act, but unlike most state and federal guidelines that offer unpaid leave, this program provides full salary coverage for eligible employees.
The legislation, known as Resolution No. 119, was passed by the Ulster County Legislature and will affect over 1,400 county employees. Metzger emphasized that the program aims to attract and retain employees, as the county renegotiates contracts with its five unions.
While the program is a positive development for county employees, it does not extend to non-government workers. Most private sector employees in the United States only receive unpaid leave, although New York State offers paid family leave at 67% of an employee's salary. Metzger hopes the program will set a precedent for other employers in the region.
The county is also focusing on other initiatives, such as affordable housing and mental health resources. Metzger announced plans to add nearly 500 affordable housing units and enhance public transit services. Spectrum Local News reported that these efforts are part of a broader strategy to improve living conditions in Ulster County.