State House OKs bill to require paid sick leave

OLYMPIA — The Washington state House has passed a bill requiring many of the state’s employers to offer employees paid sick leave.

The bill passed the Democratic-controlled chamber in a 51-46 party-line vote Tuesday after a short debate. It would require all businesses in the state with more than four full-time employees to give workers at least five days a year of sick and safe leave. The leave time could be used if a worker is ill, needs to care for a sick family member, or to deal with dangerous conditions at home or work.

Rep. Laurie Jinkins, D-Tacoma, who sponsored the bill, said more than a million workers in Washington currently do not have any paid sick leave at their jobs.

The bill next moves to the Senate for consideration.