WASHINGTON (AP) – More than a half-million workers in the nation’s capital will get up to eight weeks of paid family leave under a law that Mayor Muriel Bowser has allowed to take effect without her signature.
Bowser, a Democrat, opposed the paid family leave bill and considered vetoing it, calling it a burden on businesses because it imposes a new tax. She also didn’t like that the benefits would be available to people who live outside the District.
The D.C. Council passed the bill with a veto-proof majority. Bowser said in a letter to the council Wednesday evening that she won’t veto the bill but she hopes to work with lawmakers to address its shortcomings.
The new law still has to survive a review by Congress, which has the final say over local laws in the District.
Copyright 2017 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. (PHOTO: youtube)
