I am proposing a mandatory 12 days of PTO for all full time employees who average 4.5+ working days per week. These days are to be treated as “Personal Holidays” and will be paid for by Employers, in addition to any PTO they may already provide. Employers would still be able to determine how these 12 days will be utilized/granted in accordance to their business needs, but they must be granted by EOY if requested. Days do not roll over, and there is no requirement for an employee to use them if that individual doesn’t want to.

As of July 2024, there were 135.04 million full-time employees in the United States, many of whom do not have adequate PTO to cover their plans, needs and lifestyle. In fact, as of 2024 there is NO Federal Law requiring Employers to provide ANY amount of Vacation pay; a stark contrast with the 20+ days many other countries require.

While most Companies do provide some quantity of PTO, it is often inadequate. Therefore, this proposal is not just intended to serve as a minimum for those who don’t have any PTO, but a much needed supplement for those who do, which applies to the vast majority of employees. Plus, coupled with the PTO rates many companies currently offer, 12 Free Days would allow a significant portion of Americans to enjoy 20-25 days off per year; placing the U.S. in line with most other countries.

This proposal would allow employees to not only take care of their needs; but to travel more, celebrate holidays not typically observed as non-working business days, and take more time to do the things they want to do! 

Many countries have begun trialing 4 day workweeks only to see positive results for their businesses and workers, including increased productivity and better mental health. The problem is, a four day work week doesn’t serve most industries. This is one of the reasons I believe 12 “free” days would reap many of the same benefits as a four day work week, but across all industries, and not place a catastrophic burden on businesses.

People thrive, both personally and professionally, when they are able to step away from work to refresh and recharge. This proposal would ensure they get adequate time to do just that. In addition, this proposal could have several economic benefits regarding travel, retail and more. 

12 days per year may only add up to one extra day per month, but it’s a significant step forward in the fight for a better work/life balance. Let’s change the way we balance work & play, for the better. #12freedays. 

Please sign and share this petition with your friends. If everyone sent this to 10 people and/or posted it on their social media account(s), we could reach more people, and faster! The more signatures, the better. Also, keep sending this petition to your State’s Senators/House Members and hopefully one of them will take notice. Let’s make this happen.