Now that most people have access to health insurance, the Democratic Party is pushing once more for paid sick leave for everyone with a job.
The Dems introduced the Healthy Families Act Thursday into Congress. The bill, which has been a consistent plank in President Obama's platform, was introduced by Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) and Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.).
Essentially it would let workers to earn one hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked up to seven days of paid sick time a year. Because all employers would have to comply, the bill's supporters believe this version of the bill will be at least reluctantly accepted, if not enthusiastically supported, by businesses.
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The measure has been shown to have broad support among the public and apparently has sufficient backing on the GOP side of the aisle that it may finally become law. Three states (Connecticut, California and Massachusetts) and 16 cities already require employers to offer paid sick leave to employees.
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Dan Cook
Dan Cook is a journalist and communications consultant based in Portland, OR. During his journalism career he has been a reporter and editor for a variety of media companies, including American Lawyer Media, BusinessWeek, Newhouse Newspapers, Knight-Ridder, Time Inc., and Reuters. He specializes in health care and insurance related coverage for BenefitsPRO.
