A new report from the Vote Mama Foundation reveals that more moms with young children are serving in the Georgia Legislature, but their numbers still do not reflect the state’s overall population. Currently, there are 19 mothers with minor children in the Legislature, which is double the number from just two years ago. However, two dozen more moms with young children would have to be elected for the Georgia General Assembly to truly mirror the broader population.
State legislatures play a crucial role in passing legislation that impacts people’s lives in various ways, such as education, health care, public safety, and tax policies. Despite the increase in the representation of mothers in state legislatures nationwide, there is still a lack of voices at the decision-making table.
Vote Mama Foundation founder and CEO, Liuba Grechen Shirley, emphasizes the importance of building the political power of mothers to achieve gender equity in politics and pass family-friendly legislation. The organization advocates for changes that would make the role of lawmaker more accessible to more people, including providing a livable wage, allowing virtual participation, and offering assistance for child care.
Efforts have been made to accommodate the growing number of moms in the Georgia Legislature, such as the installation of a lactation pod in the Capitol and the ability for lawmakers to use campaign funds for child care. However, the report also highlights that caregiving responsibilities, family commitments, and the work environment have been cited as common reasons for mothers with young children leaving office in recent years.
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