As the maternity leave policy moves forward, there are a few things that people need to consider. It’s a great policy in a perfect world. Unfortunately, we don’t live in a perfect world. There are going to be repercussions that need to be considered.

First, if I were going to open a new business, I would not open it in Allegheny County. This policy is going to cost business owners quite a bit of money. I have to pay the employee for three months leave and I have to pay a temporary employee to take their place.

Second, my employees have made a personal decision to have a child. I had nothing to do with their decision, but I’m the one who has to pay for their leave.

Third, I’m hiring people for jobs and I’m going to look for older workers, so I won’t have to worry about paying out money for their maternity leaves.

If you make the decision to have a child, the costs should be on your shoulders, not your employer.

Jill Mick,

Butler Township