DeLauro Calls for Action Ahead of Mother’s Day

WASHINGTON, DC (May 6, 2016) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement ahead of Mother’s Day.

“This Mother’s Day—as we celebrate moms around the world—we should take a moment to thank the women who have made an incredible difference in our lives. My own mother Luisa gave me a strong sense for the value of public service and civic participation, having served on the Board of Aldermen in New Haven for 35 years. While my mother worked tirelessly to make our community better, she was also raising me at a time when women were just starting to work outside of the home and hold elected office. My mother's efforts truly paved the way for future women leaders and I am so proud of her dedication to her community and her family.

“Today, moms are working to balance more responsibilities than ever before. Research shows that moms are the breadwinners in nearly two-thirds of American families, yet they are most often the ones who are responsible for things such as choosing kids' doctors and taking them to appointments. Our policies for working families are decades out of date and Congress needs to enact policies to support them. From raising the minimum wage and guaranteeing affordable child care, to enacting paid family and medical leave, we must pass legislation that will give moms—and working families—the resources they need to succeed.

“Congress must also act now to address the Zika virus and ensure the health and well-being of expectant mothers and their babies. Across the country and the Americas, women are concerned about starting a family and the health of their children. There is absolutely no reason why we should delay critical and lifesaving research that can make a difference in the lives of these women. The time to act is now and I urge my colleagues to pass the President’s emergency supplemental request immediately.”

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