Last Mothers' Day, I traveled to Afghanistan to meet with American servicemembers stationed there. I delivered hand-drawn Mothers' Day cards from children in my district and spoke with female troops about the crucial role that women play in America's mission in Afghanistan.
This year, I'm introducing legislation to support the military mothers I met with in Afghanistan.
The Family Medical Leave Act guarantees civilian women 12 weeks of maternity leave. But right now, the bravest among us - our women in uniform, many of whom are separated from their children for months at a time - may only take 6 weeks off after giving birth.
My new bill, the MOM Act, would honor women in the military by extending military maternity leave to 12 weeks. Join me in urging Congress to pass the MOM Act.
http://action.votevets.org/...
As women begin to serve in newly-opened combat positions and join our military in ever-increasing numbers, military policy needs to evolve to acknowledge and support women's contributions.
I want the military to be a place where women can succeed and thrive the way I was able to. Extending maternity leave is essential to that goal.
The bill already has more than 50 bipartisan co-sponsors, giving it a good chance of passing through the Republican-controlled House of Representatives. Your support will help increase the momentum for bringing it up for a vote.
Add your name in support of the MOM Act:
http://action.tammyduckworth.com/...
Thank you for speaking up for our servicewomen,
Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth
Click here to add your name:
http://action.votevets.org/...