A new year, a new commitment to Mississippi families

By Iris Yeldell Stacker

Jackson Advocate Guest Writer

On January 1, Mississippi took an important step forward for working families. Eligible state employees now have access to paid family leave to bond with a new child. This policy change reflects something many Mississippians already know: when families are supported during life’s most important moments, everyone benefits.

Yet paid leave remains out of reach for too many workers. Nationally, only 1 in 4 private-sector employees has access to paid family leave, and fewer than 40% have access to paid medical leave. Too often, families are forced to choose between caring for a newborn, an aging parent, or their own health and keeping a paycheck.

I know how personal that choice can be. When I gave birth to my son 38 years ago, paid family and medical leave gave me peace of mind. I could bond with my child, meet my financial responsibilities, and return to work focused and ready. That time strengthened my family and my career.

Today, as CEO of Delta Health System in Greenville, I see the same truth play out for employees and employers alike. Paid family and medical leave strengthens families and strengthens businesses. When workers have the security to care for their loved ones, they return more focused, loyal, and committed. Retaining experienced staff is far less costly than replacing them, especially in health care and other essential industries.

Research confirms this. Businesses in states with paid family and medical leave programs see productivity rise nearly 6% and profitability increase by more than one percentage point. Employers receive more than $2 in return for every $1 invested. Manufacturing firms see a $2.57 return, while technology companies see $2.64. These are real, measurable outcomes.

Paid leave also makes fiscal sense for taxpayers. Women who take paid family leave are nearly 40% less likely to rely on public assistance during their child’s first year. States with paid leave programs report fewer families turning to emergency aid, easing pressure on public resources. For small businesses, paid leave helps level the playing field by allowing them to compete with larger employers that already offer these benefits. Nearly 70% of small businesses in states with paid leave support the policy because it helps retain workers and reduce turnover.

The benefits extend beyond economics. The first three years of a child’s life are critical for development. Paid family and medical leave is associated with higher breastfeeding rates, more well-child visits, higher immunization rates, and lower health care costs. Studies even show a 12% reduction in infant mortality. These are investments in healthier families and stronger communities.

At Delta Health System, we believe in caring for the whole person, not just the hours they work. That belief reflects Mississippi values of responsibility, compassion, faith, and community. As the new year begins with this important paid leave policy for state employees, we should recognize it as a positive step and a foundation to build upon.

Paid family and medical leave is pro-family, pro-work, and pro-business. When we invest in families, we invest in Mississippi’s future.

Iris Yeldell Stacker is Chief Executive Officer of Delta Health System and a longtime Mississippi community leader.