Dems Urge Governor To Follow Illinois' Lead, Create Emergency Sick Leave Program To Protect Ohio Workers Call follows closure of K-12 schools, banning of large, public events

House Democratic leadership today sent Gov. Mike DeWine a letter urging him to create a temporary, emergency paid sick leave program to benefit Ohio’s working people and families affected by the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak, following the lead of Illinois, which announced a similar program Wednesday.

The House Dems’ call comes as DeWine announced the closing of all K-12 schools for three weeks and banning large, public events of over 100 attendees. Democrats say it’s important that those who have to stay at home to watch children or care for themselves or a sick loved one receive the support they need at this critical time.

“We know these disruptions will have a tremendous financial impact on low-income, hourly workers who simply cannot afford to take extended periods of time off of work… we are asking you, as Governor, to act to promote public health and protect the economic security of working people and families by creating a temporary, emergency paid sick leave program here in Ohio,” the lawmakers wrote.

This is the second letter Dem lawmakers have sent this week urging DeWine to use his authority to provide relief to working Ohioans impacted by the coronavirus outbreak.

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