County weighs paid family leave for government employees – Bucks Round-Up – October 14, 2025
County weighs paid family leave for government employees
Bucks County officials are exploring the idea of offering paid family leave to county workers, following the public comment period at the October 1 Bucks County Commissioners meeting. Resident Ann Ferguson called on the board to act, pointing out that neighboring states, including New Jersey, New York, Delaware, and Maryland, already have such policies and that similar measures have bipartisan support in Harrisburg. She cited legislation in both the State House and Senate, though both bills have stalled. “One in the Senate and one in the House, and that one has 78 co-sponsors, and there’s tremendous bipartisan support. It passed the House last year, but both bills are now being held up by Republicans. These bills would allow working families to take care of aging parents, care for sick children and, of course, allow women to have paid maternity leave.” Commissioners Chair Bob Harvie (D) confirmed that the county has been studying the issue for several months but offered no details on cost, structure, or timeline. Ferguson also reminded the commissioners that Montgomery County already provides up to sixteen weeks of paid leave.
Police launch autism-friendly “Blue Envelope” program
Bristol Borough Police are implementing a new initiative to improve interactions with drivers on the autism spectrum. The “Blue Envelope” program, introduced by Police Chief Joe Moors and co-responder Melissa Jackson, provides a clearly marked blue envelope. Jackson explained the program to the council. “It’s a policing initiative designed to enhance safety and communication between law enforcement officers and drivers on the autism spectrum during traffic stops, because being stopped by a police officer can make anyone anxious, but for a person with autism, the heightened situation, the flashing lights and radio sounds along with other noises, can be even more overwhelming.” Jackson adds, the blue envelope allows drivers to keep their license, registration, and emergency contact card to hand over to police when stopped. The blue envelopes are available on weekdays at the Bristol Borough Police Department, 250 Pond Street. Several Bucks County police departments have already adopted the approach.
Bucks IU programs build career paths for adults with disabilities
The Bucks County Intermediate Unit (Bucks IU) is highlighting success stories from its Transition and SEQUEL programs during Disability Employment Awareness Month. The programs help young adults with disabilities gain workplace experience and job readiness skills. One graduate, Geraldine Gonzales, began as a Project SEARCH intern at the Bucks County Justice Center and now works for The Nutrition Group in the Lower Moreland School District. Bucks IU leaders say such outcomes show how inclusive employment strengthens both individuals and workplaces. At Doylestown Country Club, another Bucks IU partner, interns have transitioned into paid positions in hospitality and food service. Employers say the initiative has fostered “empathy, inclusivity, and mutual respect” across staff. Through partnerships with local businesses and government offices, Bucks IU continues to help residents with disabilities build meaningful, lasting careers close to home.
Joe LeCompte hosts LeCompte in the Morning on WBCB 1490.
