MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Thousands of people who work in Minneapolis will gain eligibility for paid sick time starting next summer.

The Minneapolis City Council voted unanimously Friday to require employers with six or more workers to provide paid time off. Employees can earn one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked. They can accrue up to 48 hours per year, but can't carry more than 80 hours without prior approval. Businesses with fewer than six employees will need to provide the same amount of unpaid sick time.

Mayor Betsy Hodges calls it "a landmark day for Minneapolis." She says the city has now "recognized that no one should have to choose between being healthy and being paid."

About 40 percent of people who work in Minneapolis don't earn sick leave.

 

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