Statement from Mayor Bill de Blasio on Paid Sick Leave

July 30, 2014

"Beginning today, more than one million of our fellow New Yorkers will be able to take time earned from their jobs if they or a family member is sick. In our efforts to move toward economic equality in New York City, paid sick leave is a major step forward. We have worked very hard over the last several months to ensure everyone was aware of this day. The employers who drive our economy will see a healthier  and more productive workforce-and their employees will have the peace of mind, knowing they will not lose their jobs if they are too sick to work, or if their child needs emergency care. A healthier city means a stronger city, and we should all be proud of this law. I commend Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, and the entire City Council, for making this new standard a reality."