Dem lawmakers gripe about the ‘economic violence’ of not being paid to stay home from work when menstruating Democratic lawmakers are advocating for the Reproductive Healthcare Leave Act, which would provide up to 12 days of paid leave annually for reproductive health needs, including severe menstrual pain. They describe the lack of such provisions as ‘economic violence,’ emphasizing that employees shouldn’t have to choose between their paycheck and their health. However, the bill has drawn criticism, with some questioning its scope and potential for discrimination, while others support the initiative despite anticipated roadblocks.

• Democratic lawmakers introduced the Reproductive Healthcare Leave Act (H.R. 8158) to provide paid leave for reproductive health needs.
• The bill offers up to 12 days of paid leave per year for conditions like severe menstrual pain, abortions, menopause, and miscarriages.
• Lawmakers supporting the bill label the lack of paid leave for menstruation as ‘economic violence.’
• The bill has faced backlash, with critics questioning its wording, potential for discrimination, and inclusion of vasectomies without corresponding provisions for men’s health issues.
• Endorsed by organizations like Planned Parenthood and the National Organization for Women (NOW).