Core Provisions: This act would require employers with at least 15 employees who work at least 30 hours a week to provide seven days of paid sick leave and pro-rated leave for part-time employees. The leave could be used for the employee, “a child, a parent, a spouse, or any other individual related by blood or affinity whose close association with the employee is the equivalent of a family relationship” requiring care for an illness, injury, or medical condition, or for obtaining medical diagnosis or preventative care. The legislation includes a private right of action for employees to sue their employer, and a posting requirement.

Status: H.R. 1542 was introduced by Rep. DeLauro (D-CT) on March 15, 2007, and on June 27, 2007 it was referred to the House Workforce Protections and Health, Employment, Labor and Pensions Subcommittees. S.910 was introduced by Sen. Kennedy (D-MA) on March 15, 2007 and referred to the HELP Committee.