Connecticut 2014 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB05269

Introduced
2/20/14  
Introduced
2/20/14  
Refer
2/20/14  
Report Pass
3/11/14  
Report Pass
3/11/14  
Refer
3/21/14  
Refer
3/21/14  
Report Pass
3/27/14  
Report Pass
3/27/14  
Refer
4/1/14  
Refer
4/1/14  
Report Pass
4/7/14  
Engrossed
5/1/14  
Report Pass
5/2/14  
Chaptered
5/20/14  
Enrolled
5/21/14  
Enrolled
5/21/14  
Passed
6/6/14  

Caption

An Act Creating Parity Between Paid Sick Leave Benefits And Other Employer-provided Benefits.

Impact

The legislation aims to enhance the welfare of service workers by establishing a baseline for paid sick leave, thereby promoting job security and health equity. Prior to this bill, there was significant variability in employer policies regarding sick leave, which often left lower-wage employees vulnerable during illness. By mandating minimum leave accrual, the bill aligns paid sick leave with other benefits, fostering a more equitable workplace environment and encouraging attendance in a healthy manner.

Summary

House Bill 05269, titled 'An Act Creating Parity Between Paid Sick Leave Benefits And Other Employer-provided Benefits', amends existing statutes to ensure that paid sick leave benefits are on par with other employer-provided benefits for service workers. The bill mandates that employers provide a minimum of 40 hours of paid sick leave per year for eligible employees, which accrues at the rate of one hour for every 40 hours worked. This protection specifically targets service workers, providing them with critical support when they are ill and unable to work.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HB 05269 appears to be positive, particularly among worker advocacy groups and some legislators who view this measure as a step towards strengthening labor rights. Supporters argue that such a policy is necessary to protect vulnerable workers, particularly in industries with high turnover and risks of illness. However, there may be contention from some business groups who express concerns over the regulatory burden this could impose on small businesses and the potential for increased compliance costs.

Contention

Notable points of contention involve the definition of 'service worker', which the bill specifies as employees in a variety of occupations primarily engaged in service industries. Critics argue that while the policy addresses important issues of health and safety for workers, the broad definition may unintentionally encompass positions that may not require the same level of benefits. Additionally, discussions have arisen about the balance between ensuring worker benefits and maintaining a business-friendly environment. Proponents and opponents alike stress the importance of structuring these changes to benefit employees while considering the operational realities of businesses.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05166

An Act Expanding Paid Sick Days In The State.

CT HB05005

An Act Expanding Paid Sick Days In The State.

CT SB00012

An Act Expanding Access To Paid Sick Days In The State.

CT SB00007

An Act Concerning Connecticut Paid Sick Days.

CT HB05165

An Act Expanding Connecticut Family And Medical Leave Benefits To Noncertified School Employees.

CT SB00222

An Act Concerning Changes To The Paid Family And Medical Leave Statutes.

CT HB05247

An Act Concerning Employee Health Benefit Consortiums.

CT SB00331

An Act Concerning State Marshals' Health Benefits.

CT HB05369

An Act Concerning A Benefits Cliff Study.

CT SB00348

An Act Eliminating Service In Time Of War As An Eligibility Criterion For Certain State And Municipal Veterans' Benefits.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.