Virginia groups support paid sick leave legislation

RICHMOND, Va. (WDBJ) - Supporters of legislation requiring paid sick leave say the COVID-19 pandemic makes a compelling case for their proposal.

Representatives of the Virginia Interfaith Center and other groups are supporting a measure that would require five days of paid sick leave for certain essential workers.

Joshua Briere is a restaurant worker and college student who spoke in favor of a paid sick leave requirement, during a teleconference Tuesday morning.

“When it comes to feeding your family and paying your rent, or going to work sick, I don’t know a single person who would not choose to feed their family or pay their rent,” Briere said. So we need to ensure there’s a safety net for Virginians when they get sick.”

The National Federation of Independent Business opposes the paid sick leave legislation, saying it will put a heavy burden on businesses at a time when many are struggling to survive.

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