State Capitol: 2 lawmakers propose paid sick leave bill

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Two lawmakers have introduced measures that would require some employers to offer paid sick time away from work.

The measures, introduced Thursday in the House and Senate by Democratic Rep. Laurie Jinkins of Tacoma and Democratic Sen. Cyrus Habib of Kirkland, also would allow employees time off to seek legal or law enforcement assistance if their safety, or that of a family member, was at risk.

Employers with four or less employees are exempt under the measure. Employees that work for companies larger than that will accrue time based on hours worked and the size of the company.

A similar measure passed the House last year, but died in the Senate.