Connecticut has amended its paid sick leave law to ensure eligible employees can take time off for mental health reasons. These changes went into effect on October 1, 2023. Additionally, the amendments expanded leave availability to parents of victims of family violence or sexual assault.
Mental Health Wellness Days
Under this legislation, employees can use their paid sick leave for mental health wellness days. This means eligible employees can take a day off to prioritize their emotional and psychological well-being instead of attending a regularly scheduled shift.
Leave for Parents of Family Violence and Sexual Assault Victims
Workers are also be entitled to take paid leave for specific reasons related to being victims of family violence or sexual assault. In addition, the amendments allows parents or guardians of children who are victims of family violence or sexual assault to also take time off, as long as the worker is not the perpetrator or alleged perpetrator.
Connecticut Paid Sick Leave
In Connecticut, private employers with a minimum of 50 employees are required to follow the paid sick leave law, which only applies to service workers (as defined in the law). However, manufacturers and nonprofit organizations under IRS Code Section 501(c)(3) are exempt from this requirement.
Eligible service workers can earn one hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours they work, with a maximum of 40 hours per calendar year. This leave can be used for the worker's own health, medical care, and well-being, as well as for their family members.