Sick leave: accrual and use.
Among the significant changes proposed by AB 2841 is the increase in the minimum sick leave accrual for in-home supportive services providers, raising it to 40 hours or 5 days for employment commencing January 1, 2026. The bill also raises the maximum limit on total paid sick leave an employee can accrue to 80 hours or 10 days, reflecting a notable shift in supporting employee welfare and job security. This reformation not only aligns sick leave benefits with prevailing wage standards but is seen as a critical step towards fortifying labor rights in California.
Assembly Bill No. 2841, introduced by Assembly Member Gonzalez Fletcher, amends Section 246 of the Labor Code to enhance sick leave regulations for employees in California. The bill mandates that employees who work for an employer for 30 or more days within a year receive paid sick leave accrued at a rate of no less than one hour for every 30 hours worked. Additionally, the bill stipulates that employees are entitled to use accrued sick leave beginning on the 90th day of their employment, ensuring that they can begin utilizing their accrued sick days in a timely manner.
The bill has prompted discussions concerning its implications for employers, particularly small businesses that may face difficulties adjusting to the increased requirements. Proponents argue that enhanced sick leave policies are necessary for employee well-being and public health, while opponents express concerns about the financial burdens placed on employers. The conversation surrounding AB 2841 reflects broader concerns about balancing employee rights with the operational realities faced by employers, particularly in the context of variable economic environments.