Organizers of a proposed ballot measure that aims to mandate paid sick leave for Nebraska employees announced on Wednesday that they have garnered support from over 200 businesses. The initiative, known as Paid Sick Leave for Nebraskans, has not faced any organized public opposition thus far, and years of polling suggest bipartisan backing for its objectives.
The measure stipulates that businesses with 20 or fewer employees must provide at least five paid sick days per year for full-time workers, while larger companies would need to offer seven days. Employees, both full-time and part-time, would accumulate one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, aiming to address the lack of coverage for individuals in industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and various service sectors.
Organizers highlight that more than 250,000 workers in Nebraska lack paid sick leave, with over a third of full-time employees and three-fourths of part-time employees affected. Lindsey Clements, co-owner of Vis Major brewery and restaurant, stated that offering paid sick leave is a smart investment in retaining quality employees and ensuring customer safety. She emphasized that businesses putting workers in a position where they must choose between financial stability and their health jeopardize the motivation of those who contribute to their success.
Support for the measure is echoed by Rafael Santa-Maria, COO of Caring for People Services, who believes that paid sick leave is vital not only for employees but also for the vulnerable populations they serve. The Rev. Debra McKnight, founder of Urban Abbey, noted the economic and moral imperatives for Nebraska employers to adopt paid sick leave, asserting that people’s well-being should take precedence over profits.
As Nebraska approaches the November ballot, this initiative is expected to remain a significant topic of discussion, reflecting a growing awareness of the need for comprehensive employee protections in the state.
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