Paid sick days are the responsible way to prevent the spread of disease and keep everyone healthy by encouraging sick workers and children to stay home – away from co-workers, schoolmates, and customers.

1 million people working in Washington have no paid sick leave, including:

• 140,000 in accommodation and food service
• 150,000 in retail
• 90,000 in health care and social assistance

Paid sick days ensure people can care for their health needs without losing a day’s wages, or their job. With paid sick days, people can seek preventive care and early treatment for themselves and their family members, as well as manage chronic conditions – and that keeps us all healthier.

Paid sick days also promote healthier businesses by preventing the spread of food-borne disease and boosting employee productivity and morale.

Seattle, Portland, OR, San Francisco, Washington, DC, New York City, Jersey City, and Connecticut have established paid sick leave standards.

“It makes sense to supportyour people, and they’llsupport you – which willgain you market share,and make you more moneythan skimping on paid sickdays. My business hasgrown and I’ve added a newlocation and a food truck since Seattle’s sick leave law took effect.”

– Makini Howell
Owner: Plum Bistro, Plum Cafe, Plum Juice Bar, Hillside Quickie Too 

“Paid sick days wouldhelp people like me stayhome when we’re sick.That would be betterfor workers and ourcustomers.”

– Vic-ee Olson
Grocery Store Deli Worker