Female Italian workers could soon have three days of paid menstrual leave.
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Women go through a ton of discomfort monthly due to their menstruation cycles. Now, it seems that the Italian government is looking to aid their ailing female workforce.
The country’s lower house parliament, as per The Independent, could become the first ever to offer women paid menstrual leave each month.
Taking in consideration those who suffer from debilitating cramps — hence hindering their ability to work — the government is seriously “considering a proposal for a law” that would require companies to give time off for those with “painful periods.” The mandatory rest will be separate from their standard sick leave prerogatives.
“Women are already taking days off because of menstrual pains, but the new law would allow them to do so without using sick leaves or other permits,” Italian economist Daniela Piazzalunga said of the pending bill.
However, he also worries about the negative impact of such legislation towards the status of women’s employment in the future.
“On the other hand I wouldn’t exclude that [if the law is approved] this would lead to negative repercussions,” he said. “The demand for female employees among companies might decrease, or women could be further penalized both in terms of salary and career advancement.”
Although nothing is certain yet, the bill is expected to be signed in the following months, the report said.
Through the years, several high-profile companies have adapted the similar method, including the likes of sports giant Nike and Bristol-based firm Coexist.
Asian countries like China, Japan and South Korea have similar pre-existing laws as well. /Inquirer.net