Arguments For And Against The Proposed Healthy Workforce Ordinance

September 29, 2017 – On October 3 voters will decide if Albuquerque should mandate paid sick leave for employees, including those who are temporary or part-time, at all businesses with locations in the city. The Healthy Workforce Ordinance is controversial and has been debated for nearly a year and a half after several advocacy groups gathered enough signatures to put it on the ballot in 2016. The Bernalillo County Commission refused to put it before voters last year and this year a judge ruled the entire seven-page ordinance must be placed on this year’s municipal ballot. Supporters say paid sick leaves helps keep the whole community healthier, especially workers who must choose between getting paid and staying home when they or their family members are ill. But opponents say the measure will hurt businesses already struggling in Albuquerque’s economy and could bring job losses.

Guests:

Elizabeth Wagoner, attorney, New Mexico Center on Law and Poverty
Pat Rogers, an attorney representing the New Mexico Association of Commerce and Industry and NAIOP, which represents commercial developers

Healthy Workforce Ordinance
ABQ Sick Leave Measure To Stay On Ballot – Albuquerque Journal
Paid Sick Leave – Vital For Workers Or Job Killer? – Albuquerque Journal
Public Schools Would Be Exempt From Sick Leave Ordinance – KOB-TV
Health Care Professional Support Proposed Sick Leave Ordinance – KOB-TV
Journal Poll: Half Of Voters Favor Sick Leave Ordinance – Albuquerque Journal
Ad Battle On Sick Leave Ordinance Ensues As Early Voting Inches Closer – KRQE-TV
As Sick Leave Laws Increase Employers May Need To Consider Policy Changes – Bloomberg
Cities, States Face Off On Mandatory Paid Sick Leave – Pew Trusts