The coronavirus & work-life inequality: Three evidence-based initiatives to update U.S. work-life employment policies

Abstract

The coronavirus crisis has illuminated how poorly the United States compares with other major industrialized nations in providing workers across all industries equal access to paid sick and family leave, employee-requested flexible scheduling, and reasonable work hours. Many essential workers in frontline jobs (such as those in health care, food services, and public safety) have been unable to access benefits that support work-life balance and that play a critical role in helping employees manage job stress and protect their health. At the same time, many nonessential workers (disproportionately women) who can telecommute to prevent exposure have been left juggling a demanding job while also caring for children, elders, or others at home. We propose three evidence-based national initiatives that would improve U.S. work-life policy: ensure employees have access to and the ability to use paid sick leave and family leave, mandate that employers create emergency backup staffing infrastructures, and give employees the right to request flexible and reasonable work hours. These work-life policies are based on principles of balanced flexibility that benefit employers, employees, and society as a whole.