Healthy send-off for paid sick days measure

Following months of collaboration, the Seattle Coalition for a Healthy Workforce and local business leaders have presented a new, common-ground paid sick days proposal to the Seattle City Council.

Introduced by Councilmember Nick Licata at a press conference June 21, the proposed ordinance has the support of more than 70 organizations and a growing list of local businesses. Also on hand to endorse the proposal were Mayor Mike McGinn and Councilmembers Sally Clark and Jean Godden.

“Everyone gets sick at some point,” Licata said. “We don’t want a situation where people feel they have to stay home and lose a paycheck, or go to work and spread their disease.”

The proposal would apply to all Seattle workers: Food service workers, grocery workers, health care workers, and more. It would allow up to five days’ paid sick leave for businesses with fewer than 50 employees; up to seven days for businesses between 50 and 249 employees; and up to nine days for businesses with more than 250 employees. Part-time and contract workers in businesses of every size could also earn paid sick days.

The proposal was the fruit of collaborative discussions between Seattle business leaders and the Seattle Coalition. “Everyone around the table was committed to the shared goal of creating a healthier Seattle,” said Marilyn Watkins of the coalition. “This innovative proposal was the result. It is a responsible way to protect Seattle workers, children and public health, while giving small business the flexibility they need to provide paid sick leave for their employees.”

“Introduction of the ordinance is the first step in the legislative process,” said PSARA President Robby Stern. “Our members are sure to be active in working for its enactment. The city council needs to know that paid sick days are important to you, your family, friends and neighbors.

“Please take time to spread the word, to phone or e-mail council members, and to turn out for the public hearing from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. July 6 at City Hall.“

To learn more contact Gabriela at 206-529-6363 or Gabriela@eoionline.org or visit the website: www.seattlehealthyworkforce.org.