Starting in 2015, St. Petersburg City employees with growing families will get to spend more time with the newest additions to their families.
Mayor Rick Kriseman says it’s part of a new parental leave policy.
"New parent, mom, dad whether it’s an adoption, a foster; they will be able to stay home with their child, with their newborn and the first six weeks will be paid, they won’t have to use sick leave, they won’t have to use vacation time, it will be covered," said Mayor Kriseman.
It’s a trend resonating among mothers and gaining traction at local, state and federal levels. President Obama even announced a push this year for more maternity benefits.
Local mom, Christina Lindsey would have appreciated anything extra. Lindsey went back to work three weeks after the birth of her son and says she could’ve used more time.
"When they’re little, when they’re first born they need that time, that’s their bonding time,” said Lindsey.
Mayor Kriseman says it’s a win-win for employees and employers.
"I’m a big believer and studies show this, that when you have employees who have strong family units, who are happy, they’re more productive."
Mayor Kriseman doesn’t want this change for just St. Petersburg city workers, he hopes other companies jump on board, too.
"Consider giving your employees this opportunity to bond with their children, give that opportunity for them to build that family unit, strengthen it, so that when they come back to work they’re focused on their jobs because they know what they have at home is strong," said Mayor Kriseman.