As part of a weekly voxpop, the Newark Advertiser explored whether two weeks of paternity leave truly meets new fathers’ needs. Community members shared varied perspectives on how this policy affects bonding time, caregiving responsibilities, and family well-being.

With child care costs on the rise and pandemic-related challenges persisting, families nationwide are demanding stronger government investments. Many parents, especially mothers, want to ensure affordability and safety for their children as 2026 approaches.