CA Law Expands Sick Leave if Connected to COVID-19

Described as a “fill the gap” bill because of gaps in coverage under the provisions in the federal law, the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act included as part of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, the CA law provides all California workers who test positive for COVID-19 or have been exposed to COVID-19, to paid sick time for the balance of 2020.

It "closes the gaps in paid sick days" that exists between federal law and a prior executive order by Gov. Newsom by including (1) large employers with over 500 workers; and (2) public and private entities that employ first responders and health care workers and chose not to cover their employees under the federal law.

The enforcement mechanism provides that California's Labor Commissioner may penalize employers for not providing sick days.