As a husband and father to three children, Mayor Lenny Curry recognizes many of the parenting needs and challenges families face. While his wife Molly received extensive support and resources from her private sector employer following the birth of their children, Mayor Curry recognizes that this is not the case for many women and families. As a result, he is proposing to introduce a parental leave policy that would provide City of Jacksonville employees with similar support and offerings.
 
“My wife and I agree that there was never a more exciting or exhausting time in our lives than the births of our children,” said Mayor Curry. “While there is a great deal of research that speaks to the direct influence women have on their children’s success, I know first-hand the tremendous value and benefit our family received when Molly was able to stay home with our new babies. I believe all families deserve an environment where parents and newborns get an opportunity to bond without the worry of work demands and stresses of a reduced income.”
 
The plan, to be introduced to union officials for collective bargaining after October 1, offers parents employed by the City six weeks of paid leave following the birth or adoption of a child. Statistics support that paid leave can have a positive impact on the health of children and families. In addition to health benefits, there are also long-term economic benefits for both families and employers who offer paid leave.
 
“I’m excited Mayor Curry is working to provide paid family leave to City of Jacksonville employees,” said Senator Marco Rubio. “From the rising cost of living to the historically high cost of raising children, affordable family formation is one of the great social challenges of our time. While certain pro-family economic policies are not traditionally part of the Republican agenda, it is my goal to change that – because we cannot have a strong America without strong families. I’m glad to see momentum on this issue in Congress and at the local level. I commend Mayor Curry for his leadership in supporting Florida’s families, and look forward to building on our efforts to create the social and economic flexibility needed for raising children.”
 
Following its collective bargaining success and ratification by City Council, the City of Jacksonville would be among few city governments in the state to offer a paid parental leave policy. Currently, employees who qualify can take up to 12 weeks of leave utilizing their available leave in conjunction with unpaid leave following a birth, in adherence with Family Medical Leave Act guidelines. With this policy, COJ employees will be granted six weeks of paid parental leave, affording them the opportunity to maintain some of their leave balances.

About the City of Jacksonville

The City of Jacksonville is the largest city by land mass in the continental United States, serving approximately 850,000 residents. Located in Duval County, City of Jacksonville leadership includes the mayor and a 19-member City Council. To learn more about the City of Jacksonville, visit COJ.net.