The Family Medical and Leave Act When President Clinton signed the Family Medical & Leave Act in 1993, he created a new path for American workers to manage their work-life balance privacy. So far, the law has helped thousands of families focus on spending time with their children during the times of life when parents are needed most. New mothers now have the security of knowing that when they take maternity leave, there will be a job waiting for them if they decide to return. The other big benefit is that it has allowed families with problem children to play a more influential role in helping their children recover. Since the law went into effect, numerous studies have been conducted on its effectiveness. Employees and employers also contested this. State and local governments have adopted the act and expanded it, making it even more useful. This article will examine some of these stories and discuss the possible ramifications of these events. The level of benefits: A study from March of this year, conducted by the Children Defense Fund of Minnesota, showed that only 4 percent of Minnesota employers offer paid leave for new parents. Federal law requires twelve weeks of unpaid leave in companies with fifty or more employees. Minnesota law required only six weeks of unpaid leave in businesses with twenty or more employees. The Children's Defense Fund proposes a voluntary program that would use state tax money to cover up to 1/3 of the salary of any parent on leave if the employer covers at least another third. If this legislation passes, it could make it much more realistic for parents to take as much time as they are allowed. President Clinton said in February 2000 that he would like to expand ... to the middle of the paper ... .es and unintentionally signals vulnerability." (Heim, Pat) Not only is smiling a problem for women, but nodding can be too “When women listen during a conversation, they tend to nod unconsciously as if to say, 'I heard you.' The gesture does not necessarily mean they agree some people never think twice about their body language. Sometimes, however, this can get you into serious trouble. It is important to keep these few problems in mind when talking to people addresses two key areas where women can unintentionally send a mixed signal or, even worse, send the wrong signal. Keeping these few differences in mind will allow for better communication in and out of the workplace. by Pat Heim Ph. D. 1993 from the Penguin Group