A Comprehensive Assessment of Vermont’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Environment

Le résumé fourni par la source

Background: Despite strong evidence that paid leave improves health outcomes, Vermont has not enacted a universal paid leave policy. Current coverage is limited to state employees and voluntary participation for private employers and the self-employed. Vermont’s aging population underscores the importance of the Vermont Paid Leave Coalition’s goal of universal coverage. This study examines which populations have access to and/or use paid leave in Vermont, reasons for utilization, and areas of consideration for future policy reform. Methods: Literature review examined national paid leave programs to contextualize Vermont’s approach. We utilized REDCap to develop our survey and collect quantitative data on paid leave access and use, as well as qualitative narratives describing participant experiences. Chi-square analyses were conducted using Excel and SPSS. Results: A total of 723 survey responses and 181 narrative responses were collected from state agency employees. Paid leave utilization spanned diverse income levels, age groups, and genders. Most common uses of Leave include child bonding (39.7%), personal health needs (33.9%), and caring for family members (26.4%). Narrative responses frequently expressed dissatisfaction with the Vermont Family and Medical Leave Insurance (VTFAMLI) program, citing inadequacy of benefits and a lack of transparency regarding eligibility and policies. Higher-income respondents more often reported satisfaction with paid leave access; however, this association was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Paid leave access in Vermont provides medical, financial, and emotional benefits. Survey responses indicate that paid leave reduces the burden of medical hardship for Vermonters. Findings will be presented to the Vermont legislature to inform future policy development discussions.

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