News

Maine Paid Leave Proposal Gets OK in Senate

Maine Paid Leave Proposal Gets OK in Senate

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


AUGUSTA, Maine (AP)   A bill to provide paid time off to 139,000 newly eligible workers in Maine is moving through the Legislature.

The Senate approved the bill Tuesday. The legislation received strong committee support and needs additional approvals in both chambers.

The original bill required employers with over five employees to allow workers to use at least 40 hours of earned paid sick leave annually.

The amendment instead requires employers with over ten workers to offer paid leave that could be used for illness. Municipalities, meanwhile, couldn’t pass their own paid leave rules.

Senate Democrats estimate the proposal would provide paid time off to 85 percent of all Maine workers.

Maine’s Chamber of Commerce warned such legislation would increase business costs.

Supporters say if lawmakers don’t act, the matter could go to voters.

Latest Headlines

11 hours ago in Local

Trump Shuts Down Offshore Wind in New England; Nova Scotia Eyes Opportunity

The administration’s freeze on U.S. ocean wind projects could set clean energy back a decade. Nova Scotia’s massive Wind West project hopes to fill the gap and even sell power to the U.S.

11 hours ago in Local

Federal Policy Could Push Hundreds of Mainers Out of Long-Term Housing

HUD plans to cut funding for permanent supportive housing and shift to transitional programs, leaving vulnerable Mainers at risk of homelessness. Advocates warn shelters could be overwhelmed.

11 hours ago in Local

Maine Announces $550K in Grants to Boost Coastal Resilience

The state just announced $550,000 in grants to help communities prepare for future storms and flooding. Towns and regional groups can apply for funding to strengthen infrastructure and plan for climate risks. Applications are due Jan. 5.

11 hours ago in Local

Portland Unveils Maine’s First Electric Boat Charger

Portland just unveiled the state’s first electric boat charger at Wright’s Wharf. The move is part of a push to cut emissions and noise in the marine industry.

12 hours ago in Local

Overdose Deaths Continue to Decline in Maine for Third Year

Overdose deaths have dropped for the third year in a row! Fatal overdoses are down 23% compared to last year, and officials credit naloxone distribution and expanded treatment options. If the trend continues, Maine could see the fewest overdose deaths in six years.