In a recent roundtable discussion, the new paternity leave policy was explained. First, let me say that I think this is great that it has been made law. With my husband's unit, they were great about giving soldiers time off after the baby arrived as well as being sure they were home for the birth (even if that meant sending them home from deployment). But I know that is not the case for every unit so I think this policy is very important and long overdue.
The new policy, which actually went into effect in October of 2008, allows the soldier to take 10 consecutive days of leave in conjunction with the birth of a baby. The leave must be taken within 45 days of the baby's birth, unless the soldier is deployed at the time. In that case, the soldier has 60 days from the time of redeployment to use the 10 days of leave time. This leave is non-chargeable!
This policy mainly applies to male spouses so they are able to have that bonding time as a family after their new arrival. Female soldier who give birth as well as soldier who choose to adopt fall under different guidelines.
What are your thoughts on this new policy?
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