The bill sSB7 File No. 339 proposes significant amendments to Connecticut's existing paid sick leave laws, with an effective date of October 1, 2024. It expands the definitions of terms such as "child," "employee," "employer," "family member," "grandchild," "parent," "mental health wellness day," and "paid sick leave," and removes the definition of "day or temporary worker." The bill broadens the scope of who is covered by the paid sick leave provisions, now including a wider range of occupations under "service worker" and redefining terms like "sexual assault," "sibling," and "spouse." It also revises the accrual rate of paid sick leave to one hour for every thirty hours worked, allows for carryover of unused sick leave, and outlines conditions for employee transfers and employer succession. Deleted provisions include conditions for service workers' use of sick leave and the option to work additional hours instead of using sick leave.

The bill further specifies the conditions under which paid sick leave can be used, including for an employee's or a family member's illness, injury, or preventative care, and during public health emergencies or instances of family violence or sexual assault. Employers may require documentation for leave of three or more consecutive days but cannot request details of the illness or nature of the violence or assault. The bill prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for using paid sick leave or filing complaints, and the Labor Commissioner is authorized to enforce the provisions, including imposing civil penalties for violations. Employers are required to provide notice to employees about their entitlement to paid sick leave and maintain records for three years. The bill also includes new employer recordkeeping requirements and mandates that pay stubs reflect accrued and used paid sick time. Compliance with notice provisions can be achieved by displaying a poster and providing written notice, with the Labor Commissioner responsible for creating a model poster and notice.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 31-57s, 31-57u, 31-57v, 31-57w
LAB Joint Favorable Substitute: 31-57s, 31-57u, 31-57v, 31-57w
File No. 339: 31-57s, 31-57u, 31-57v, 31-57w