The Knesset Assembly has approved the preliminary reading of Tamar Zandberg's (Meretz) bill to give new fathers an extra three days off to assist their partners giving birth.
The time off would be granted for escorting the partner to treatment or checkups related to her pregnancy, or to be present at the birth. It could be used from the first contractions until 24 hours after the child is born.
In addition, the father will be permitted to take up to eight days off following the birth. The first three days would be considered vacation days, while the following five would be considered sick leave.