In a recent development, Chicago employers will be mandated to provision both sick leave and paid time off (PTO) to their employees, following the enactment of a new ordinance in the city. The City of Chicago introduced the new Paid Leave and Paid Sick and Safe Leave ordinance, which will be enforced starting December 31, 2023. This new regulation represents a noteworthy expansion, outstripping the recently passed Illinois Paid Leave for All Workers Act in its scope.
The newly enacted law outlines the obligations of employers in Chicago to provide their employees with:
- At least 5 days (or 40 hours) of paid sick/safe leave per year
- A minimum of 5 days (or 40 hours) of regular paid time off (PTO) per year
The ordinance indicates significant progress in workers’ rights within the city, and it is crucial for employers to take note and respond accordingly to avoid potential legal repercussions. As legal professionals, we must remember that not only is compliance with these legal changes crucial to safeguarding the rights and health of workers — it also fosters a productive and motivated workplace.
To better understand the intricacies of the ordinance, and how it extends beyond the reach of the recently passed Illinois Paid Leave for All Workers Act, read this exploratory analysis by Mintz – Employment, Labor & Benefits.
With the landscape of workers’ protections continually evolving, it is imperative for legal professionals and employers to stay abreast of changes in local, state, and federal laws to ensure full legal compliance, while respecting the rights and needs of all employees.