“The Florida Legislature acted responsibly today to protect the freedom of contract between employers and employees. Preventing local governments from creating a patchwork effect of labor policy across the state saves existing employers from burdensome rules and keeps Florida in good shape to attract new employers. Government mandated benefits raise the cost of hiring a worker, which results in lower wages paid to workers or eliminates jobs altogether. In our most recent Backgrounder, “Preserve Freedom of Contract in Florida’s Labor Markets,” it was estimated that forcing private employers statewide to provide paid sick leave would cost the Florida economy about $3 billion per year. Freedom of contract should remain unimpeded at the most local of levels—that between employer and employee.”
