Gov. Brown Signs Landmark Paid Sick Days Measure

Statement by California Labor Federation Executive Secretary-Treasurer Art Pulaski

 

Today, California made history. By signing AB 1522 (Gonzalez) to allow California workers the ability to earn three paid sick days per year, Gov. Brown reaffirmed our state’s role as a national leader in advancing the fundamental rights of working people. California is now just the second state in the country to require that workers are able to earn a few paid sick days per year. This law should spur national discussion on paid sick days, creating a path for the United States to join more than 130 other countries around the globe in providing this basic right to workers.
By signing this important bill into law, the Governor put an end to the cruel Hobson’s choice that more than 6.5 million workers face when deciding whether to go to work sick or lose wages that keep food on the table for their families. This law protects workers and consumers, and is vital to public health.

While this law is a historic step forward, California’s unions won’t rest until every single worker in our state receives equal access to paid sick days. Home care workers, like all workers, deserve the opportunity to earn paid sick days on the job. We’ll continue to fight for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) workers to ensure that California treats all workers with fairness and dignity.

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