California Expands Paid Sick Leave

California has modified the Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act (HWHFA) with the signing of SB616 and increased paid sick leave (PSL) from the current three days/24 hours to five days/40 hours. 

The new law takes effect January 1, 2024 so take the following steps now:

• If you front load PSL, increase the hours to 40.

• If you use the accrual method, increase accruals to ensure the employee accrues 24 hours by their 120th day of employment and 40 hours by their 200th day of employment.

• If you use paid time off (PTO) to satisfy the PSL obligation, ensure employees accrue five days/40 hours within six months of employment. 

• Update payroll policies, sick leave policies, employee handbooks and training materials to reflect the requirements. 

• Train your managers and supervisors to ensure compliance with attendance policies.

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There are other details of this new law, so speak to an attorney or HR consultant before finalizing policies for your workplace.