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In brief
A recent national opinion poll of 500 small business owners reveals that nearly 80% support a national paid family and medical leave program funded through shared employer and employee contributions. Conducted on behalf of Small Business Majority and the National Partnership for Women & Families, the survey highlights growing bipartisan support for standardized paid leave policies. Many small employers already offer some form of paid leave, but 80% express a desire to offer more generous benefits than they can currently afford. With nearly half of small business owners having experienced extended leave needs firsthand, support for a national program has risen 9% since the last survey in 2017.
Why this matters
Small businesses employ 45.9% of private-sector workers in the United States (about 59 million people), yet many struggle to provide paid leave due to financial constraints and a lack of national policy. The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which protects workers taking unpaid leave, only applies to businesses with 50 or more employees. While some states have implemented paid leave programs, the absence of a federal standard leaves small employers navigating a costly and inconsistent system.
The business case for paid leave
- Workforce stability: Helps retain skilled employees, reducing costly turnover expenses.
- Business growth: Paid leave improves productivity, morale and business competitiveness.
- Affordability: A shared-contribution model makes paid leave feasible for small businesses that cannot offer it on their own.
Impact on women and families
Paid leave is particularly critical for working women, who are more likely to take on caregiving responsibilities for children and aging family members. Studies show it reduces workforce dropout by nearly 20%, protecting family income and preventing labor shortages. Parents with access to paid leave can care for children and family members without financial strain, leading to better health and economic outcomes.
A universal policy over a patchwork system
Only 56% of small businesses provide any form of paid medical leave, and most offer one month or less — far short of the 12-week standard proposed in a national program. Small employers face inconsistencies across state policies, creating confusion and inequities in coverage. A federal program would level the playing field and reduce administrative burdens.
Broad, bipartisan support
Despite challenges in passing federal legislation, small business owners across party lines overwhelmingly support a national paid leave program:
- 93% of Democrats
- 74% of Independents
- 72% of Republicans
This widespread support underscores that paid leave is not just a social issue—it’s an economic imperative.
The opportunity
Small business owners and advocates looking to support a national paid family and medical leave program can explore the full survey findings and policy recommendations at NationalPartnership.org.
With the majority of small employers calling for a universal, shared-cost model, policymakers have an opportunity to act on an issue that directly impacts businesses, workers, and the economy. The message from small business owners is clear: The time for a national paid leave program is now.
Suggested reading
- Small Businesses Support a National Paid Family and Medical Leave Program
- Paid Leave: Good for Families, Businesses, and the Economy
- State Paid Family Leave Laws Across the U.S.
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