Locals voice support for paid sick days

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Community members gathered in Springfield Thursday to raise support for legislation that would require all employers in the state to provide paid sick time.

With the coming flu season and concerns about H1N1, proponents say it is important to keep sick people away from others.

Two West Springfield residents who suffer from Multiple Sclerosis say if one of their home care aids were forced to work while sick, they could be seriously harmed.

"They could put us in jeopardy as far as that because our immune system is affected by the multiple sclerosis, we get sick, it's longer for us to come back," said Diane Hall.

The legislation would would require employers to give seven paid sick days a year. Those days could also be used to take care of a sick family member.