WASHINGTON (AP) – More than a half-million workers in the nation’s capital will get up to eight weeks of paid family leave under a law that Mayor Muriel Bowser has allowed to take effect without her signature.

Bowser, a Democrat, opposed the paid family leave bill and considered vetoing it, calling it a burden on businesses because it imposes a new tax. She also didn’t like that the benefits would be available to people who live outside the District.

The D.C. Council passed the bill with a veto-proof majority. Bowser said in a letter to the council Wednesday evening that she won’t veto the bill but she hopes to work with lawmakers to address its shortcomings.

The new law still has to survive a review by Congress, which has the final say over local laws in the District.
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