Portland City Council Letting Legislature Handle Paid Leave

News

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) City councilors in Maine’s largest city have rejected an ordinance requiring paid leave for workers.

The Portland City Council voted 5-4 Monday against the proposal, with the majority saying a statewide policy would be better than a local ordinance.

A paid-leave proposal is currently working its way through the Maine Legislature.

Portland Mayor Ethan Strimling supported the local paid leave ordinance, arguing that the legislative proposal excludes businesses with fewer than 10 employees. He said that would leave 9,000 Portland workers unable to earn paid sick time.

Democratic Gov. Janet Mills helped to broker a compromise on the state bill that would allow workers to earn up to 40 hours of paid time off a year.

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.