Chihuahua Congress expands paid paternity leave

The Chihuahua State Congress has approved a reform to expand paternity leave to support family unity and mental health. Under the new decree, fathers will be entitled to 20 days of paid leave following the birth of a child.

In cases where complications arise during childbirth, the paid leave can be extended to up to 30 days. Legislator María Antonieta Pérez Reyes, a member of the Morena parliamentary group, stated that the reform aims to shift the cultural perception of postpartum care, which has historically been viewed as a responsibility exclusive to women.

The measure is intended to encourage men to take a more active role in both physical and emotional support for the mother and newborn. The reform will take effect once the decree is published in the State Official Gazette.