EA extends paid parental leave policy

For a company consistently considered the worst company in America," publisher/developer Electronic Arts is now doing something that's incredibly rare for U.S.-based businesses — offering its employees paid parental leave.

In a statement posted shortly after the New Year, EA announced an update to their parental leave program.

"Welcoming a new family member is one of the most exciting times for our employees," EA Chief Talent Officer Gabrielle Toledano wrote. "As a mother, I know firsthand how important it is to have ample time to bond with your new child. That’s why I’m very pleased to share that we’ve updated our parental leave policies for the US to allow for additional paid time away for our employees who are expanding their families."

Under the new terms, employees who have been with the company for more than a year are now being offered 10 weeks of paid parental leave. This applies to mothers, fathers, and adoptive parents. Birth mothers can combine this with disability leave and now take up to six months of paid leave depending on the length of disability. Previously, employees were given seven weeks of parental leave, according to GI.biz, which also reports that EA has increased the amount of leave pay given to employees.

The U.S. is reportedly the only industrialized nation, and one of only three countries in the entire world, that doesn't offer paid maternity leave.

"Research shows that paid leave improves employee morale, retention and most importantly, has significant benefits for family health and wellness," Toledano said. "At EA, we want to create a culture that inspires you to do the best work of your career, but we know you can only do that by having the flexibility and support to balance your career and personal life."

Regardless of how you feel about their games, this is incredibly amazing and I hope more businesses follow. Well done, EA.

[Gamespot]