The Health and Human Services Committee hosted a public hearing in Portland on a proposal to require businesses to offer paid sick leave to employees. The proposal would allow both part-time and full-time workers to earn six days off. Those who support it say it would help reduce the spread of viruses and help families who cannot afford to stay home to care for a sick child. Opponents believe the proposal would be expensive, complicated and could ultimately cost jobs. The Health and Human Services Committee is expected to vote on universal paid sick leave next month.