We are the richest country in the world, yet we are the only developed nation without mandated maternity leave.
If we value a high standard of living, and well developed citizens than we must require comprehensive maternity, and I would argue paternity leave.
We have seen better career outcomes for women where both men and women get time off to raise children. Part of this is because employers, consciously or unconsciously, no longer have the excuse that a woman should be less considered for a position because she will have to take care of children. Women would be less likely to leave the work force all together.
It would also foster a culture that is more supportive of families as a whole. This policy would be a positive force on our economy and the working class.