Philadelphia, PA has joined the group of states and cities that have mandated sick leave for workers. Mayor Michael A. Nutter signed legislation on February 12th that requires workers employed by a business or organization with 10 or more employees must earn one hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours worked up to a minimum of 40 hours of sick leave in a calendar year. Employers with fewer than 10 employees must provide unpaid sick leave to employees. A chain establishment will be required to provide paid sick leave regardless of the number of employees in a particular establishment. Employers will have to display a sick leave poster that will be provided by the city in the workplace, update their handbooks to include the sick leave provisions and provide notice to employees that they are eligible for paid sick leave.
Businesses with existing leave policies that meet the minimum paid sick leave accrual standards and other requirements within the legislation will not have to change their policies or provide for additional leave time.
The ordinance takes effect 90 days from February 12, 2015.