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The Founding Fathers no doubt didn’t imagine members of Congress being the ones going on pregnancy leave, but the foresight they showed in the creation of the Constitution as a living document surely could be reconsidered to accommodate the rights of a duly-elected representative. That is– if we expect the next generation of leaders to ascend to Congress.

Monday marks the first day U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) is unable to vote and represent her constituents in Washington, D.C. because of outdated House rules that prohibit a Member from voting remotely.

Pettersen is expecting her second child in just a few weeks and is prohibited from flying due to medical and travel restrictions.

Representative Pettersen is leading the call to allow proxy voting – or remote voting – for Members of Congress who are new parents.

This commonsense measure was not implemented by Republican Leadership despite bipartisan support, so Pettersen will continue fighting for this reform. Current House rules prohibit proxy voting, forcing Members to choose between their official duties and taking care of their newborns during a crucial time.

“I can’t physically be in D.C. to vote because I’m unable to fly this close to my due date,” said Pettersen. “It’s unreasonable that the House refuses to make any accommodations for people who are pregnant or welcoming a new child. We will continue to fight to bring our resolution to the floor for a vote and will work on measures like this to make Congress more accessible to young families.”

Even though Pettersen will be unable to vote in-person in Washington, D.C., she will continue working on behalf of Colorado’s 7th Congressional District here in Colorado. Her offices in Washington, D.C., Lakewood, and Cañon City will also remain fully open and operational for the constituents of Colorado’s 7th Congressional District. Her staff will continue to assist Coloradans with navigating federal agencies like the IRS, Social Security, Medicare, and more.

If you need assistance or have any questions, please contact 303-274-7944 or 719-458-6161 or visit www.pettersen.house.gov.