AUGUSTA — A proposal to create a commission to develop a paid family medical leave policy in Maine moved closer to becoming a reality on Thursday.

The Maine Senate voted in favor of the proposal.

The commission would be tasked with studying the best way to implement the medical leave policy.

Democratic Sen. Mattie Daughtry crafted the proposal, which passed by a count of 23-11 with some bipartisan support. Daughtry said the proposal addresses the fact many workers are “forced to choose between financial security and personal and family wellness.”

The commission would eventually propose a paid family and medical leave program for the state. Daughtry said the panel would “hear from workers, employers, caregivers and experts” and “propose a system to support all workers, families and employers in Maine.”