In the big picture, we want to take maternal health seriously.

We want to minimize harm to our nation’s pregnant and postpartum patients. And through laws like Paid Family and Medical Leave, we have helped to ensure parents can afford to welcome and care for the new lives they labor into the world.

But what happens when that picture never develops?

For women like Cassidy Perrone, who delivered her daughter, Olivia, stillborn in 2022, the tragedy is compounded by flaws in the system designed to support them as they recover and try to care for themselves and their families.

Perrone, the primary breadwinner, learned after the birth that she was ineligible for Paid Family Leave.

In New York pregnant people who experience stillbirth are currently excluded from receiving Paid Family Leave (PFL), despite their partners being eligible. In some instances having their approved cases revoked after they suffer a fetal loss.

This is why PUSH for Empowered Pregnancy (PUSH), a group of parents and medical providers advocating for those who have experienced stillbirth, is convening in Albany this coming week to call for legislation that would bring awareness to the need for more equity in how paid family and medical leave benefits are determined.

Since PFL is intended for bonding with new babies, caring for ill........

© The Saratogian