Landmark Minneapolis Sick Time Ordinance Protects Workers

Without paid sick time, employees are more likely to force themselves into the workplace even when they should be at home in bed. In other instances, workers must choose between caring for a loved one or going to work. Currently, four out of 10 workers in the city of Minneapolis do not have access to paid sick time. A landmark ordinance was approved recently giving paid sick and safe time for the majority of workers within the Minneapolis city limits.

Without paid sick time, employees are more likely to force themselves into the workplace even when they should be at home in bed. In other instances, workers must choose between caring for a loved one or going to work. Currently, four out of 10 workers in the city of Minneapolis do not have access to paid sick time. A landmark ordinance was approved recently giving paid sick and safe time for the majority of workers within the Minneapolis city limits.

Who is eligible for paid sick time?
The new ordinance mandates paid sick time for employees who work at least 80 hours a year in the city of Minneapolis. With some exceptions, the ordinance governs all employers with six or more employees and will go into effect July 1, 2017.

When can a worker use sick or safe time?
Employees may use sick or safe time when they are ill, however, paid sick or safe time is not limited to employee illness. The employee may take sick or safe time for their own health or to care for a sick spouse, child, parent or family member. The law also applies to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Individuals who are in a domestic abuse situation or victims of sexual abuse may use the sick and safe time to receive medical treatment or seek counsel or other services.

Are workers paid full wages when they take sick or safe time?
Yes, under the ordinance, workers must receive the same wages that they would have been paid if they worked the missed shift. An employer cannot reduce the hourly rate or diminish earnings in relation to sick or safe time pay.

Are sick or safe time days limited?
Workers are not entitled to take unlimited sick or safe time days. Employees will accrue one hour of sick and safe time for every 30 hours worked. Any sick or safe time that is unused can accrue and carry over to the next year.

Can a parent take sick time if school is cancelled?
Minneapolis is known for severe weather conditions in the winter. In the event that school is cancelled because of a health emergency or weather conditions, a parent may use sick or safe time days to stay home with a child.

This is a groundbreaking ordinance that serves to protect employees and their families. According to the Minneapolis City Council, paid leave is critical to helping families maintain health and security and is a strong contributor to healthy individuals, families and communities, “the foundation of any well-functioning society.” Workers who were once denied paid leave now have the opportunity to earn a living and provide necessary care to their loved ones without the fear of lost wages. Other benefits of paid leave include the reduction of public and private health care costs, worker protection against job loss, and the improved health and wellness of Minneapolis residents.

Wanta Thome Jozwiak & Wanta LLP is dedicated to protecting employee rights in Minneapolis, St. Paul and throughout Minnesota. Contact us to discuss lost wages, discrimination or other employment law issues.