The bill amends the "Earned Sick Time Act" in Michigan by updating definitions and provisions related to earned sick time for employees. Key changes include redefining the "Department" to refer to the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and clarifying the definition of "Domestic Partner" to encompass legally recognized committed relationships. The threshold for "Small Business" is increased from fewer than 10 to fewer than 25 employees. The bill specifies that earned sick time must be accrued at a rate of 1 hour for every 30 hours worked, with limits on the amount of paid and unpaid sick time that can be utilized in a year. It also outlines the circumstances under which employees can use earned sick time, including personal or family health issues, domestic violence, and public health emergencies.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that require employers to accept a signed statement from a victim and witness advocate or a court document as valid documentation for earned sick time related to domestic violence or sexual assault. It prohibits employers from requiring employees to disclose the nature of their illness or the details of the violence when providing documentation, and mandates that employers cover any out-of-pocket expenses incurred by employees in obtaining such documentation. The bill strengthens protections against retaliatory actions by employers and ensures confidentiality of health information related to domestic violence or sexual assault. It establishes a one-year timeframe for employees to file claims for violations and outlines enforcement responsibilities for the department, including penalties for non-compliance. Any agreements that provide fewer rights than those established by this act are deemed void and unenforceable.

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