AUGUSTA, Maine — Maine Republicans say they're proposing a "reasonable" compromise on paid sick leave.
Republicans on the Legislature's labor and housing committee plan to discuss the proposal Tuesday.
Democrats, buoyed by legislative wins in November, have backed paid sick leave. Supporters say if lawmakers don't act, the matter could go to voters as a referendum.
A Democrat's bill would allow an employee to earn one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. Employers could cap usage to no more than 40 hours per year.
A Senate spokeswoman said Republicans believe the rate should be one hour for every 50 hours worked for a total of about 40 hours per year.
Republicans also prefer to allow workers to start using paid time off after 150 days. Democrats proposed 90 days.
