Chicago Expands Reasons for Paid Sick Leave

On June 25, 2021, Ordinance 02021-2182 was passed by the Chicago City Council. In addition to creating new wage theft protections, the Ordinance expands reasons for use of paid sick leave. 

As background, the city requires employers to provide employees with paid sick leave to care for themselves (or a family member) if they work at least 80 hours within any 120-day period (eligible for use by the 180th day of employment). The ordinance applies to all employers with at least one covered employee. 

The ordinance expands reasons for paid sick leave to include absence due to an order to quarantine or stay home to prevent spread of a communicable disease issued by the mayor, Illinois government, Chicago Department of Public Health or a healthcare provider. It also expands reasons that already exist, such that leave is permitted:

• To care for family members whose school or place of care has been closed (omitting the closure to be caused by order of a public official due to a public health emergency)
• If an employee or covered family member is a victim of a sex offense, which now includes stalking, aggravated stalking or cyber stalking
• For the purpose of receiving diagnosis or treatment for mental or behavioral issues, including substance abuse disorders (or if a covered family member is receiving such services)

Employers with employees in Chicago should be aware of the expanded reasons for use of Chicago paid sick leave and ensure compliance with the revised paid sick leave rules effective August 1, 2021.

Ordinance 02021-2182 »