AUGUSTA, Maine — The Maine Senate unanimously passed a bill on Thursday that, if enacted, would create a statewide earned paid time off policy.
On May 16, state legislators voted to enact an amended version of L.D. 369, "An Act Authorizing Earned Employee Leave."
The proposal would require companies with 10 employees or more to offer earned paid time off. It would apply to 85 percent of all Maine workers, while exempting more than 40,000 of Maine's 50,792 businesses.
Under the proposed law, Maine workers would be able to earn one hour of paid time off for every 40 hours worked. They would be able to earn up to 40 hours of paid time off per year.
10 states currently have paid sick laws, according to the National Council of State Legislatures. Maine's bill would allow workers to use paid time off for other emergencies, as well.
The bill now heads to Gov. Janet Mills' office for approval. If passed, it would take effect on January 1, 2021.