We suggest that US mandates at least 4-month paid leave and additional 3-month unpaid leave for mothers. We also suggest that paternity leave benefits be introduced as well, to support paternal bond and improve family relationships.
The FMLA act of 1993 does not provide adequate support for mothers, with regards to the following:
a) In case of a single mother, she has no other means of supporting herself
b) Three months which FMLA mandates is just way too little. Separating a 3-month old baby from the mother has detrimental implications both on mother's and child's health, prevents proper breastfeeding and is disruptive to the family.
c) Compared to other countries, US maternity laws offer very scarce benefits.