PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Rhode Island is considering whether to give workers paid time off to care for a new child or sick family member.
The proposal in the General Assembly has some high-profile backers, including Senate President Teresa Paiva Weed.
Workers would fund the program with a payroll deduction that, for most, would amount to less than $1 a week.
Supporters say paid leave helps people care for loved ones without financial worries.
Once the program is phased in, employees could take off up to eight weeks a year to care for a new child or a sick or disabled parent, spouse or child.
Although paid family leave is common in Europe, only California and New Jersey have similar programs in the U.S.
