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Helping Women and Families
Today marks one year since the House passed the Working Families Flexibility Act, which makes it easier for workers to use their overtime towards paid time-off if that is their choice. This is especially helpful for working women, who often confront a lack of flexibility.
Helping Women and Families Today marks one year since the House passed the Working Families Flexibility Act, which makes it easier for workers to use their overtime towards paid time-off if that is their choice. This is especially helpful for working women, who often confront a lack of flexibility. Unfortunately, the Democratic-run Senate is sitting on this and dozens of good jobs bills, many of which are geared towards helping women and their families. Our proposals recognize that throughout time, women have proven themselves to be pioneers, innovators, leaders, and decision-makers. We have become experts at juggling multiple responsibilities, and as such, the proportion of women entering the workforce full-time has jumped substantially. In addition to providing more flexibility, here are four more solutions Republicans are working on to keep that trend moving in the right direction: Protecting Hours and Wages. According to a recent Hoover Institution study, 2.6 million Americans are at risk for having their hours and wages cut as a direct result of ObamaCare’s 30-hour rule. An astounding 63 percent of those at risk of being hurt by this are women. That’s why the House passed a measure that restores the 40-hour work week so that you can obtain the hours and wages you need to make ends meet. Lowering Health Care Costs. In addition to our duty within the workforce, many of us are mothers and caretakers, making approximately 80 percent of all healthcare decisions for our loved ones. While ObamaCare has done nothing but complicate our healthcare system, Republicans have instead focused on providing solutions to reduce costs, protect jobs, and allow families to retain their preferred doctors and pediatricians. Lowering Energy Bills. Nielsen reports that more women than men are worried about rising food costs, “possibly because women have traditionally been primary shoppers for food and grocery items in most households.” Policies coming out of Washington that make it harder to produce American energy serve as a “hidden tax increase” on everyday expenses. That’s why Republicans are working on an all-of-the-above energy plan that will help lower costs and keep prices stable. Supporting Small Businesses. The economic impact of women-owned businesses in the United States is now nearly $3 trillion. The National Women’s Business Council says that this translates to the creation or maintenance of 23 million jobs, but we know that two-thirds of small businesses will see their premiums spike under ObamaCare. To overcome this and encourage women entrepreneurs, Republicans are focused on reining in red tape and fixing the tax code to support our small businesses. Women nationwide are contributing to this country’s economic success and competitive edge, and Republicans are working to ensure to we have the tools we need to thrive. Instead of stalling, Democrats in Washington should join us, so that one year from now, we’re talking about progress, not more missed opportunities. NOTE: This is the ninth part in an in-depth series on Republicans’ long-term jobs plan. Mrs. Ellmers is serving her second term as U.S. Congresswoman representing North Carolina's second district in the House of Representatives. She currently serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and is Chairwoman of the Republican Women's Policy Committee. |