Throughout the Reagan-Bush years, many groups have been hit hard. Among them is the American worker.

While the voodoo theory of economics made the wealthy even wealthier, the trickle-down theory of economics left many American homes fairly dry. Layoffs, salary cuts and decreases in employee benefits -- these are the legacy of the Reagan-Bush leadership.

Last week Gov. Robert P. Casey recognized the hardships many Pennsylvania employees face by supporting family leave legislation.

If passed, the Pennsylvania family leave bill would require companies with 50 or more employees to offer up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for family emergencies and maternity leave. After four years, companies with 20 or more would also be affected.

The state House passed the bill last year. Now it is up to the state Senate to stop stalling. It is only through this type of legislation that the American worker will be protected from exploitation.

Despite what Reagan and Bush may believe, the traditional American family no longer exists. The June Cleaver model for running a household has been replaced by single parent homes and working mothers and fathers. Companies must begin to realize that benefits such as extended family leave have become a necessity for many working families.

And studies have shown that it is not just the worker who benefits. For many companies, extended family leave helps increase productivity by cutting employee turnover and improving morale.

Twenty other states have already recognized the importance of extended family leave by passing similar legislation. It is about time for the state Senate to stand up for its workers and take the same action.