Mize CPAs’ Jan Marrs Advocates for Paid Parental Leave Before the Kansas Senate Committee

Mize CPAs Shareholder Jan Marrs, SHRM-SCP, recently had the opportunity to present before the Kansas Lawmakers Financial Committee, discussing the benefits of paid parental leave. This type of informational presentation is a rare occurrence for the committee, as such discussions often precede the introduction of a bill. Marrs was joined by representatives from nonprofit organizations, including Nurture KC and the Breastfeeding Coalition, who emphasized the importance of expanding paid leave beyond maternal benefits.

Sean Gatewood, Brenda Bandy, the Breastfeeding Coalition and Family Forward, Jan Marrs, Mize CPAs, and Tracy Russell, Nurture KC after presenting to the Kansas Senate Committee.

During the committee meeting, lawmakers engaged with Marrs on key business considerations, particularly the return on investment associated with paid parental leave. They were curious about how similar policies function in other states and asked for further insights into Mize’s experience implementing the program.

The Importance of Paid Parental Leave

Mize CPAs has long been committed to fostering a family-friendly workplace. The firm expanded its parental leave policy following COVID-19 to better support employees transitioning to life with a new child. Unlike traditional leave tied to FMLA requirements and a 12-week timeline, Mize’s policy is designed with flexibility in mind, ensuring all parents—regardless of gender—can take advantage of the benefit when they need it the most.

The initiative to enhance parental leave was largely driven by employee feedback. Surveys conducted within the firm revealed a strong desire for not only paid maternity leave but also paid paternity leave. The absence of an all-encompassing parental leave policy even contributed to the loss of a valued manager who wanted more time with his new child. Taking employee needs into account, Mize leadership recognized the importance of offering a comprehensive parental leave policy to attract and retain top talent.

National statistics highlight the necessity of such policies. Nearly 40% of parents nationwide say they have left a job because it lacked flexibility, and only 13% of private industry workers nationwide have access to paid parental leave. Additionally, nearly a quarter of moms return to work just two weeks after having a baby, and less than 20% of workers have paid family leave through their jobs. These figures display the challenges families face when balancing work and family responsibilities.

Positive Impacts on Employees and Business

In the last two years since implementing the policy, Mize has been recognized as a Top Workplace in both 2024 and 2025. Employees, especially fathers, have expressed appreciation for a policy that acknowledges their role in the family dynamic. Primary caregivers have also expressed gratitude for the policy that allows their partner more flexibility to help them when they need it. Additionally, the policy has contributed to an overall positive work culture. Even those who do not personally utilize the benefit recognize its value in creating a supportive work environment and have expressed that they are now more likely to refer a family member to work at Mize.

Overcoming Challenges and Advice for Other Businesses

While the initial concern surrounding the policy centered on potential costs, Mize found that the financial impact was minimal compared to the long-term benefits. Employee satisfaction, retention, and recruitment have all improved because of the policy. The firm’s HR team conducted extensive research, evaluating policies from across the country to develop a plan that would be both competitive and sustainable.

Marrs’ advice to other businesses considering paid parental leave is straightforward: “Do it. But also, make the business case. Bring in an accountant to analyze the data and show you the significant payoff.” Mize’s experience demonstrates that a well-designed parental leave policy is not just an employee perk—it’s a smart business decision.

As Kansas lawmakers continue discussions on the issue, Mize CPAs remains a leader in advocating for workplace policies that support families and strengthen businesses alike.