Conn. Lawmakers Debating Paid Sick Leave Bill
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) -- The House of Representatives is discussing legislation that would make Connecticut the first state in the nation to require certain employers to offer their employees paid sick time.
The House began the debate on Friday afternoon. It was expected to continue through the night.
Republican opponents have filed more than 100 possible amendments to the bill, which would affect businesses with 50 or more employees. The bill targets the service industry, where workers are often handling food. Manufacturers and tax-exempt organizations were removed from the bill to help gain support among lawmakers.
Workers would accrue one hour of paid sick leave for each 40 hours worked.
The bill already passed the Senate on an 18-17 vote. Democratic Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has said he'll sign the bill into law.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
