Letter to the editor: Paid sick leave is good for workers, communities

The letter “Sick leave expansion is anti- business” (June 18, TribLive) fundamentally misunderstands the expansion of Pittsburgh’s Paid Sick Days Act. Branding this essential worker protection as “anti-business” is a short-sighted perspective that overlooks the well-being of our workforce and community.

Saying businesses are “forced to pay employees who don’t work” misrepresents the purpose of paid sick leave. It’s an investment in public health and economic stability. When employees can’t afford a sick day, they come to work ill, spreading germs, reducing productivity and potentially creating public health hazards. This can infect employees and customers, ultimately costing businesses more.

Studies consistently show paid sick leave reduces employee turnover, a significant expense for any business. Replacing and training new staff is far pricier than a few days of paid leave.

Claiming a lack of business input is also debatable. Paid sick leave has been widely discussed for years, with various stakeholders, including labor and public health advocates, providing substantial input. It wasn’t enacted in a vacuum.

Regarding the need for “another employee to fill that shift,” this is a basic challenge businesses already manage for vacations and other absences. Paid sick leave simply offers a structured, humane way for employees to manage their health without fear of losing income or their job.

The notion that the act will “chase out” businesses is a common exaggerated tactic. Businesses thrive with a healthy, stable workforce and strong consumer base. True entrepreneurs understand that investing in employees is key to long-term success, not a burden.

Mark Berton

Bridgeville