Employers Beware – July 1 Paid Sick Leave Deadline Approaching

Developments in paid sick leave rules and regulations continue in 2017.  As previously noted in Hinshaw’s Employment Law Observer blog, a new paid sick leave law will go into effect in Chicago and Cook County beginning July 1, 2017. Cook County is expected to issue final regulations on June 1 which should provide further clarification on the application of the new ordinance. Starting July 1, your business may have to provide these benefits. We are prepared to help you determine whether your business is impacted and assist you with any policy and handbook updates. 

The law will cover employers that employ at least one "Covered Employee" with a place of business within Cook County. If applicable, the ordinance enables employees to accrue one hour of paid sick leave for every 40 hours worked, up to 40 hours per 12-month period. Some home rule municipalities within Cook County have opted out of the ordinance or have indicated an intent to do so before July 1.  We will be watching for the final regulations on June 1 and are prepared to address any issues or questions you may have regarding the new law.

Hinshaw Partner Aimee Delaney recently spoke about the new law and other top regulatory concerns to an audience of home health care agencies. You can read an article that summarizes her presentation and addresses key concerns here.

This alert has been prepared by Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP to provide information on recent legal developments of interest to our readers. It is not intended to provide legal advice for a specific situation or to create an attorney-client relationship.