Unpacking Google's Challenges: The Reasons Behind the Non-Payment of Parental and Medical Leave for Laid-off Workers

April 25, 2025 Know More In light of a report by CNBC, more than a hundred former employees who were laid off have created a movement named 'Laid off on Leave', pushing for Google to honor previously approved leaves, including parental, medical, and caregiver leave. Even though the company announced an 18-week parental leave policy at the beginning of 2022 (24 weeks for birth parents), those who were terminated received only 16 weeks of severance pay and additional compensation for years served, alongside paid time off.

The members of this collective are describing how the changes have significantly affected their parenting arrangements, especially among new parents. Additionally, it has led to challenges in accessing healthcare. Some of those affected have revealed to CNBC that they lost access to Google's medical facilities immediately after receiving their layoff notices, making it impossible to obtain in-person care. Although virtual consultations are offered by Google, many individuals have been prompted to seek other solutions for their medical requirements.

In a statement to CNBC, Google reaffirmed its commitment to providing 16 weeks of severance pay to outgoing employees. It was also noted that employees leaving the company would continue to receive their regular wages and stock benefits during a notice period of '60+ days'. The company proudly claims that its support for employees on leave is comparable to, if not more favorable than, that of its industry counterparts.

Those affected are calling on CEO Sundar Pichai and the management team for immediate clarification regarding the leave policies. Reports indicate that Google aims to finalize the severance conditions by March 31.

Google isn't the only organization dealing with layoffs while employees are on leave; various companies have undergone significant layoffs. Interestingly, these organizations had previously offered attractive benefits to lure in top talent but are now reassessing these advantages due to budget constraints. This period presents hefty challenges, yet there's a prevailing optimism for discovering innovative ways to support employees amidst the uncertainty.

• Meta has disclosed a restructuring strategy that will result in a reduction of about 10,000 jobs, alongside the cancellation of 5,000 open positions. The plan outlines efforts to simplify its organizational structure, eliminate low-priority initiatives, and moderate hiring practices. News regarding restructures in tech divisions is anticipated to emerge in late April, with announcements in business divisions expected by late May. Read More Big hedge funds are taking significant sell-offs in companies like Netflix, Google, and Meta.
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