More Marylanders May Gain Paid Sick Days

Working Matters Maryland, a coalition of 140 labor, community and business organizations, hopes to see another 130,000 state residents gain access to earned sick and safe days, this time in Prince George’s County.

Three County Council members introduced the bill Sept. 15, just a few months after Montgomery County passed one the strongest paid sick days in the U.S. Council Member Mary Lehman told her colleagues, “No one should have to risk their job or paycheck to care for their health or the health of a family member. Low and middle income workers are much less likely to be offered paid sick leave than higher paid workers.” She said the bill would ”not only create healthier work and school environments, but we can also improve employee retention, increase job safety and reduce training costs.”

Jennifer Jones president of HOCS Strategic Business Solutions, agreed and said, “as a small business owner and longtime advocate for women throughout Prince George’s County, it’s inexcusable to think that in 2015 any working woman – or family – would have to choose between her sick child and her job.”