York City Council to consider paid leave for victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault

The York City Council will unveil a proposed "safe time leave" policy for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault at a 9 a.m. Tuesday, July 17, news conference in council chambers.

Councilwoman Edquina Washington drafted the proposal, which will be officially introduced in a committee meeting  at 6 p.m. that day in the chambers.

The bill would allow any city employee who is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault or similar crime to take time off work to seek assistance.

"No employee should have to jeopardize their safety because of fear of losing their job for taking necessary days to seek assistance for domestic situations," Washington said. "This bill is a powerful demonstration of how government and employers can stand by workers who have experienced extreme and unacceptable forms of violence."

Council President Henry Nixon added he "encourages all York City employers to enact similar policies."

The legislation is expected to be adopted at a 6 p.m. Tuesday, August 21, council meeting.