Md. lawmakers won’t vote on paid sick days

Maryland lawmakers have decided not to advance legislation that would have required many businesses to let workers earn as many as seven paid sick days each year. Advocates accused Democrats, who hold majorities in both chambers of the legislature, of only supporting working-class issues during election years.

Sen. Thomas M. Middleton (D-Charles) and Del. Dereck E. Davis (D-Prince George’s), who lead the committees that handled the legislation, explained the decision in a letter to the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, which opposes the bill, and the Job Opportunities Task Force, which is fighting for paid sick days.

Given “the complex nature of this legislation and the potential impact that it may have, if enacted, on the State’s businesses and workforce,” the legislation needs more work, said the letter, which is dated Friday and was made public Monday.

More