You wouldn't have to be sick, to take a sick day under legislation approved Tuesday by the Illinois House.
It sounds, like cheating. But that's not what this is about, says Representative Andrew Skoog, a Democrat from LaSalle.
"This is an effort to address the challenges facing 1.7 million caregivers in Illinois that juggle the work and caring for loved ones at home," said Skoog.
The measure allows sick time to be used to care for a close relative, like a child, spouse, or parent. If a company offers sick time, that is. The proposal doesn't mandate that.
Still, Republicans like Rep. Ron Sandack of Downers Grove say it's overreach.
"This is in the category of well-intended, but not well through through. This may be a perfect example of stretching things too far, mandating too far. You know, big government knows better for small companies and for employers," said Sandack.
Other Republicans say that's what personal days, vacation time, and the Family Medical Leave Act are for.
