When women succeed, we all succeed. That is why I am fighting so that women who do the same work as men earn equal pay. Taking care of a sick child or going through pregnancy should not mean having to lose out on badly needed funds. And healthcare choices should be made by women, not their employers.

I am pushing for a Women’s Economic Agenda, which would bring today's policies on minimum wage, child care and paid leave into the modern age. The fact is that today, women still earn just 80 cents for every dollar their men earn. And for women of color, this number is even lower. We must also improve access to affordable childcare. Too many women have to choose between a paycheck and making sure that their children are properly cared for.

That is why I was so proud to vote for H.R. 7, the Paycheck Fairness Act, which would guarantee equal pay for equal work. This was one of House Democrat’s top priorities in the new Majority, and we are urging the Senate to take up this historic legislation. 

I also believe that it’s time for the U.S. to join the 145 other countries who offer all workers paid sick days and family leave policies. Our country is one of four countries that don't offer paid leave to new mothers. I am pushing for policies that would make paid sick leave, and paid family and medical leave the standard in this country. As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over these issues, I am fighting to ensure that American working families have the time off they need.