SB 637 - This act creates the Healthy Families, Healthy Communities Act. The act requires all employers to provide sick leave for employees. Regular employers must offer one hour leave for every 73 hours worked, not to exceed 40 hours in a year. Small employers must offer one hour leave for every 80 hours worked, not to exceed 26 hours in a year. Employees may only carry 40 hours from one year to the next.
Sick leave under the act shall accrue monthly and may be used as it accrues. Leave may be used for absences due to physical or mental illnesses, injuries, medical conditions, the seeking of medical diagnosis, medical care or preventative medical care, and for caring for a child or a relative.
Employers may require certification to corroborate the need for leave and must keep all health information submitted by the employee confidential.
Employers must post notice regarding sick leave conspicuously on the premises or in a handbook and may not take any action against the employer for exercising any rights or taking any action relating to the sick leave policy.
The Attorney General may enforce the provisions of the act by bringing an action in civil court. Damages and other relief which may be sought in the action are provided.
CHRIS HOGERTY