Supporters of a proposal to extend paid sick time to most Oregon workers say the legislation has stalled.
As it's now written, the measure would require businesses with six or more workers to offer up to five days of paid sick leave per year.
Backers, including Democratic Representative Paul Holvey, said the measure would benefit more than just employees.
"We shouldn't be forcing people, because they can't afford to stay home, to go to work that puts the public somewhat at risk if they're working in the food service industry, child care, taking care of seniors,” Holvey said.
Holvey spoke at a state capitol press conference meant to put pressure on lawmakers to vote the measure out of a committee where it's been stuck for nearly two months.
Critics argue the paid sick time bill would put small businesses at a disadvantage because they have so few workers that they can't afford to pay the ones who aren't actually there, even if they're sick.