Senate panel approves sick pay compromise

By: The Associated Press

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PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) —  A Rhode Island senate panel has approved a compromise proposal that would require private sector employers to provide their workers with paid sick days.              

The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 7-1 to approve the amended bill Wednesday. It now awaits consideration by the full Senate, as well as the state House of Representatives.              

The original bill would have guaranteed seven days of sick pay, but the compromise version guarantees four days starting next year and five days by 2019. That’s similar to what’s offered in neighboring Massachusetts.              

The compromise version also exempts small businesses with 10 or fewer employees. It would also exclude certain workers from the benefit, such as independent contractors or interns.              

Business groups had negotiated to scale back the mandate but remain opposed to some of the provisions.

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