Congress better ‘when we have moms in office’: Rep. Jill Tokuda

New bill would allow Congress to vote by proxy after giving birth
Rep. Jill Tokuda is urging lawmakers to reconsider barriers in place
Tokuda: 'This is a no-brainer. This is common sense'

Updated: Jan 18, 2024 / 08:48 PM CST

(NewsNation) — A new bill introduced in the House of Representatives would allow new mothers in Congress to vote by proxy, giving them six weeks to spend time with their newborns.

“We are stronger as a country. Congress is better when we have moms in office,” Rep. Jill Tokuda, D-Hawaii, said during an appearance on NewsNation’s “The Hill.” Tokuda is one of 20 Democrats supporting this bill.

She’s urging lawmakers, especially those who are already parents, to reconsider the barriers that exist right now.

“This is a no-brainer. This is common sense,” Tokuda said. “Physically having to be present right after giving birth to vote on behalf of your constituents. This has got to go. … America is better with moms in Congress. This resolution is going to make sure that the door is wide open for those mothers who want to serve.”

The bipartisan bill is spearheaded by Reps. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., and Sara Jacobs, D-Calif., and it would allow colleagues to cast votes on behalf of new mothers.