The Wall Street Journal
President Barack Obama on Monday signed an executive order requiring federal contractors to issue paid sick leave to their employees, the latest in a series of administration moves imposing new requirements on companies that contract with the U.S. government.
Mr. Obama’s action gives about 300,000 employees of federal contractors the chance to earn up to seven days of paid sick leave annually, senior administration officials said. Additional workers have access to more sick days than they did in the past.
Employees are permitted to use the paid leave to care for themselves or family members.
Related: States to Help Workers Save for Retirement/The Wall Street Journal
If you’d like to discuss employment or health care law, contact David Weissman, dweissman@roselawgroup.com
Comments by David Weissman:
“The administration’s executive order requiring federal contractors to provide paid sick leave to employees is consistent with a growing trend among states and municipalities across the country. While the vast majority of states still do not mandate this benefit, the idea seems to be gaining momentum.
“Indeed, a bill was proposed in the Arizona Legislature earlier this year, which would have required workers to earn one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked, up to 72 hours annually. While that bill did not pass, it is likely to be reintroduced in the legislature next year.
“Similar legislation has also been proposed at the federal level (unsuccessfully), and Congress is likely to revisit the issue in light of the administration’s order. Employers who are unsure as to whether they have an obligation to provide paid sick leave to employees – California recently enacted a statute requiring employers to provide this benefit – are best advised to consult with legal counsel.”
