PRI seeks to extend paternity leave to 15 days with pay; currently only 5 days

A proposal in Mexico's Chamber of Deputies aims to significantly expand paternity leave, extending it from the current five working days to 15 days with full pay. The initiative, put forth by Congressman Emilio Suárez Licona of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), seeks to reform Article 132 of the Federal Labor Law.

The current legislation provides fathers with only five days of leave following the birth or adoption of a child. This stands in stark contrast to the 84 days of maternity leave, a disparity the PRI legislator highlighted as a "marked inequality." The proposal argues for a more equitable distribution of parental responsibilities and time for family care.

"The proposal seeks to balance this right, guaranteeing more time for the care and integral development of families," Suárez Licona stated. He referenced criteria established by the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN), which mandate the harmonization of paternity and maternity leave, recognizing the superior interest of children. The legislator also pointed to countries like Spain, Sweden, and Norway as examples of nations that have advanced toward equality in parental leave policies.

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The proposal seeks to balance this right, guaranteeing more time for the care and integral development of families