Legislation that effectively creates a voluntary national paid leave policy was introduced into both houses of Congress earlier this week. The legislation, entitled the Strong Families Act, would give a 25% tax credit to companies that offer between two and twelve weeks of paid leave to their employees. Filed by Republican Senator Deb Fischer (NE) and Independent Angus King (ME) in the Senate, an identical proposal was also introduced in the House by Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Terri Sewell (D-AK). The legislation had also been filed by Fischer and King in the past but could not gain any traction. Under the proposal, the tax credit will only apply to wages of $72,000 or less and would be pro-rated based on the exact salary level. President Trump’s daughter and senior advisor Ivanka Trump has been working on Congress to adopt a federal paid leave mandate that places the burden on employers. Just a few weeks ago, the conservative Heritage Foundation came out strongly in opposition to the mandate approach that Ivanka was advocating, fearing it would quickly become a new entitlement. In that context, her ultimate position on the Strong Families Act may determine whether it will advance or not.