The bill amends the "Earned Sick Time Act" in Michigan by updating key definitions and provisions related to earned sick time for employees. Notable changes include redefining "Department" to the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and clarifying the term "Domestic Partner" to emphasize legal recognition of committed relationships. The definition of "Small Business" is modified to increase the employee threshold from fewer than 10 to fewer than 25. The bill also specifies that employees will accrue one hour of earned sick time for every 30 hours worked, with limits on maximum usage per year and provisions for the carryover of unused sick time. It outlines permissible uses of earned sick time, including personal health issues, domestic violence, and public health emergencies, while allowing employers to require advance notice and documentation for extended absences.

Additionally, the bill introduces new protections for employees affected by domestic violence or sexual assault, mandating that employers accept a signed statement from a victim advocate or court document as valid documentation for earned sick time, without requiring details about the illness or violence. Employers must also cover any costs incurred by employees in obtaining documentation. The bill strengthens protections against retaliation for employees exercising their rights, reducing the complaint filing timeframe from three years to one year, and establishing enforcement mechanisms that allow the department to impose penalties on non-compliant employers. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance employee rights and clarify employer responsibilities regarding earned sick time.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (S-1): 408.962
Senate Introduced Bill: 408.962