Microsoft is extending parental leave benefits to contractors, mandating that many employees who work with the company be given 12 weeks of paid leave after the birth or adoption of a child. There are a number of caveats, but overall the policy starts to ensure that more people around the US have the privilege of recovering after birth and spending time with their newborn.

The policy applies to a wide range of companies whose employees perform work for Microsoft. “Examples could include people who staff our cafeterias and provide janitorial services to companies who provide professional services such as engineering consulting,” a spokesperson said.

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