Washington's paid sick leave

;Are you an employer or employee in the State of Washington? Effective January 1, 2018, as a result of Initiative 1433, Washington employers will be required to pay most employees sick leave. The new laws, which will be enforced by the Washington Department of Labor & Industries, are the result of the initiative process--meaning Washington state residents (not lawmakers) voted to enact the laws. Here's what you need to know:

1. Most employees will earn/accrue sick leave at a rate of one-hour of paid leave per 40 hours worked.
2. The law covers part-time and seasonal workers.
3. Employees are entitled to be paid sick leave at their normal hourly compensation rate(s).
4. Employees can use sick leave on the 90th calendar day after the start of their employment. 
5. 40 hours or less of unused leave must rollover to the next year.
6. Employees can use the leave to: care for themselves or family members; if their child's school or their workplace is closed for any health-related reason​; and for absences that qualify under the Domestic Violence Leave Act​. 

Employers can make broader policies, and employers with existing paid time off or flex time policies may already fit the requirements of the new law. If you need to update your policies or handbook as a Washington employer, please contact an employment attorney familiar with the new laws.