And just to expand on that a bit further. The FMLA allows you to take up to 12 weeks unpaid leave for health reasons, and protects you from being terminated by

And just to expand on that a bit further. The FMLA allows you to take up to 12 weeks unpaid leave for health reasons, and protects you from being terminated by your employer during that time. My wife and I had to face similar decisions when our first son was born. I really applaud Google for doing this. I certainly understand that employers walk a thin line on giving benefits without employees simply taking advantage of the company. But a good maternity/paternity leave program really helps build loyalty to a company.