The city of Austin is considering instituting a policy that would make it mandatory for workers under private employers to receive paid sick leave benefits. Austin City Council’s September resolution directing city staff to solicit public feedback on what a paid sick leave policy would entail set off a series of meetings and an online forum where people could give their opinions. The council is likely to take up whether to enact an ordinance early next year, but for those wondering, there is certainly precedent for U.S. cities requiring private employers to provide paid sick leave to employees but no apparent examples in the state of Texas. According to the Texas Workforce Commission, employers are not required to provide sick leave benefits, paid or unpaid—except under the Family and Medical Leave Act. Next steps include the presentation of a final report to City Council.