Today, SEIU along with the Center for American Progress, American Women and Planned Parenthood Action Fund, launched Fair Shot: A Plan for Women and Families to Get Ahead. The initiative focuses on elevating public policies that address the challenges women face. Following is a statement by SEIU President Mary Kay Henry.

"The Fair Shot campaign launched today recognizes the vital role women play as breadwinners and decision-makers. So many of the policy proposals in this plan-- including increasing the minimum wage, expanding access to child care, promoting broader access to healthcare--will help make sure women and their families are not just getting by, but getting ahead.

"Too many working people, including women, are struggling to make ends meet. They worry about keeping a roof over their heads and putting food on the table--and they can't begin to imagine how they will save money or get ahead. Just yesterday, data released by the Census revealed that people are working harder but they are standing still. In a nation as rich as ours, we can and should do better.

"That's why working people are proud to stand behind the Fair Shot campaign. It calls for bold policy changes that will make sure working women have the income they need to support their families, and it calls for protections they need to have a fair shot on the job.

"Equally important, it recognizes that women's health and women's economic security are inseparable, and it calls on states to take full advantage of the Affordable Care Act and the opportunities it presents to expand access to healthcare to more women and working people so they can stay healthy.

"Working women are key drivers of our economy. Together, with support of policymakers and business leaders, we can make positive change and give more women and families a fair shot."

Download the report [PDF].

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