Don't we all want the opportunity to find a better balance between work and family life while supporting our economy? But when parents can't find that work-family balance, we all struggle - not just the parents, not just their children, but also the local shops, grocery stores, and the very economy we are trying to build.

Right now, over 40% of workers have no access to earned paid sick days - and most can't afford to take the time without pay, even if they can do so without risking their jobs. 9 out of 10 workers have no access to paid family leave to help a loved one through a major crisis, and those who do have access to unpaid FMLA can't use that time to care for their siblings, grandparents, or grandchildren.

Meanwhile, as families struggle with the cost of everything, women continue to earn less than men do. The lack of equal pay means that our families and our economy suffer - without money to pay for basic needs, our children go without food, clothing, or medications, while our local stores go without the business that helps them stay open.

Finally, while family incomes are not keeping pace with the cost of living, much of a family's income is spent on childcare costs, leaving little left over at the end of the month for basic needs. By making high-quality childcare accessible and affordable, many parents can go back to work knowing they can make ends meet a little easier.

If we want jobs that boost our economy, we need jobs that give workers an opportunity to meet their basic needs - and the basic needs of the businesses in their community. So today, let's work together to ask the state and federal government to support jobs that support everyone.