GSBA Vision & Mission

MISSION: To combine business development, leadership and social action to expand economic opportunities for the LGBT Community and those who support equality for all.

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Perspective by Louise: Paid Sick Leave, the right thing to do but can small businesses afford it?


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Many of you are aware that the City of Seattle is considering an ordinance on Paid Sick Leave. This Ordinance will affect all GSBA members, whether you are a business owner or an employee. GSBA has members in favor of as well as opposed to this issue. GSBA has been actively engaged in discussions on this policy and have tried to represent your concerns. Whatever your position, I encourage you to base your decision on accurate information by attending a free, educational forum on this issue on Tuesday, July 26 from 5:30-7:00pm. The Forum is sponsored by the Greater Seattle Chamber, co-sponsored by GSBA and many of our friends from the other neighborhood Chamber and Business Associations (both opponents and supporters).


The recent results of the GSBA member survey on Paid Sick Leave showed members were split on the issue, with more members opposed. However, your comments showed strong support for employees being able to stay home if they are sick, and without the fear of losing their job. In addition, many of you reported you already offer paid health insurance, paid sick leave, paid time off or shift changes so employees avoid losing income. Many of you added comments that you believed paid sick leave is "the right thing to do" but, were worried about keeping your doors open in a still struggling economy.


Without a clear mandate from our membership, GSBA will not take a position advocating either for or against the policy. As a result of the feedback from GSBA and other business leaders, the proposed ordinance has already been significantly modified to address the concerns of small businesses. We understand there are still other concerns, which is why we encourage you to register for this Paid Sick leave seminar. Space is limited, so per-registration is required.

Your success is our business,

Louise


GSBA Co-Sponsored Paid Sick Leave Forum

Seattle Center

Tuesday, July 26

5:30 - 7:30 pm

Free

http://paidsickleaveforum.eventbrite.com/

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