Halfpoint Images/Getty Images Heather Whaling is an author, founder of PR agency Geben Communication, and an advocate for innovative workplace policies and paid family leave programs. With the expiration of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, many employers in the US will now no longer offer paid sick leave benefits for workers, Whaling explains. This will result in nearly 90 million Americans being forced to choose between safely following COVID-19 protocols if they get sick or securing their paycheck. Whaling says Congress should step in to secure paid leave during this time because as a critical need for families, businesses, and public health.