There is a bill being considered in NYC right now, the so called “Paid Sick Time” bill (pdf), that would require all small businesses (even those under 20 employees) to offer paid sick time to part-time and full-time employees. It’s just about guaranteed to pass, and is veto-proof.
Here’s what you need to know if you run a small business:
- Businesses over 20 employees must give 9 paid sick days
- Businesses under 20 employees must give 5 paid sick days
- Part time employees count
- Employees can take sick time to care for family members, including preventative care
- Employees need to provide a doctor’s note only if out for more than 3 consecutive days
- If you already have a leave policy (e.g. Paid Days Off policy) that grants employees enough paid leave under this bill, and you allow them to use these days in the same way the bill calls for, you do not need to grant additional days.
- The main sponsor of the bill is Gale Brewer
- The only person standing in the way of the bill is Christine Quinn, who said she’ll decide in the fall.
I recommend you familiarize yourself with the bill, and prepare a policy that covers you. If you support or are opposed to this bill (pdf), you can take action by contacting the above policy makers.
