East Haven State Representative James Albis has become a co-sponsor of the paid sick leave bill that is now before the General Assembly.

SB-913, “An Act mandating employers provide paid sick leave to employees,” has had a public hearing and vote by the legislature’s Labor and Public Employee’s Committee

“I am pleased to be one the co-sponsors of this legislation because I believe it is the right thing to do and that the bill has been revised so that it applies to only businesses with 50 or more employees,” Rep. Albis said. “This means that small businesses and mom-and-pop shops in East Haven that have fewer workers will not be burdened with extra costs.”

Rep. Albis noted that Governor Malloy’s promise to sign the bill if it passes the General Assembly is an encouraging sign that the bill will become law this year.

“We have an opportunity to provide many workers with paid sick leave that they now do not have, forcing them to work when sick,” Rep. Albis said. “Not only is this good for workers, it’s good for business in need of good workers.”

In addition, the proposed paid sick leave bill includes the following: employees will accrue one hour of sick leave for every forty hours worked, up to 40 hours per year; employees must work 680 hours before they get sick leave; paid sick leave will be allowed for illness, injury, mental illness, preventative care, family violence and sexual assault; employers cannot retaliate against employees who take legitimate paid sick leave.

The bill is currently before the Senate and will require additional committee scrutiny before final votes are scheduled.