Legislators in Augusta have recently been debating a bill called “An Act to Care for Working Families.” The bill will ensure employees at businesses of more than 25 people have a minimum number of paid sick days off from work.

It’s easy to assume that this bill is against the interest of employers, but that’s simply not the case. Paid sick days are not only a necessity for the health and wellbeing of Maine employees, but they also provide substantial benefits for Maine’s businesses.

Studies have shown that an employee is more likely to maintain a job that provides job flexibility and the recognition of individual and family health. Retention of employees is an essential factor in preserving job productivity. According to research by the Families and Work Institute, the cost of replacing a salaried worker averages to be 150 percent of that employee’s annual salary.

Furthermore, people who can take proper care of their health will be more productive at work than people who are forced to work while they are sick.

Yet, despite all of the overwhelming incentives to provide paid sick days, only one of every two full-time workers has them. That’s why a basic workplace standard is needed.

Everyone should support this important piece of legislation so that all Maine citizens can benefit.

Brendan Jarboe, Lewiston