Driving Collective Action: Why B Local Philly Supports Paid Family Leave in Pennsylvania

B Local Philly, is leaning into our role as a connector and stepping up to organize and advocate for policies that uplift our workers, support our families, and strengthen our local economies.

Recently, our community gathered for a vital virtual session focused on a critical collective action opportunity: bringing a Paid Family and Medical Leave program to Pennsylvania. We were incredibly fortunate to be joined by two brilliant guest who are steeped in this work—Dan from Children’s First and Sarah from Maternity Care Coalition—who shed light on where PA stands, why this legislation is long overdue, and why right now is a make or break moment.

The Current Landscape: A Critical Moment for PA

Did you know that Pennsylvania is one of the few states in our region that still lacks a statewide paid family and medical leave program?

Despite this, the desire for paid leave isn’t a partisan issue, Pennsylvanians across party lines overwhelmingly want and support it. While versions of the Family Care Act have moved through legislative chambers for the past seven years, we are finally seeing historic momentum.

Recently, the PA House stepped up for families and small businesses by passing HB200 and sending it to the Senate. Now, as state budget negotiations are underway, a paid family leave program could become a reality in a matter of weeks. But to cross the finish line, our state senators need to hear from us.

As business leaders, owners, and employees, our voices carry immense weight. We know that robust paid leave policies don't just support health, wellness, and equity; they help small businesses attract talent, increase employee retention, and build resilient workplaces.

B Local Philly Community Takes a Stand

In the spirit of collective action, the B Local Philly community is uniting to make some noise. We aren't just sending individual notes, we are speaking together as a unified business force.

Below is the official open letter drafted by B Local Philly to express our community's staunch support for this legislation, followed by the Certified B Corps and values-aligned businesses in our network who have proudly signed on. If you're organization is interested in signing on as well, please email -

blocalphiladelphia@gmail.com