Philadelphia Expands Sick Leave Law to Help Workers Impacted by COVID-19

Philadelphia workers may now use their paid sick leave for COVID-19 (Coronavirus) related reasons.

Yesterday, the City of Philadelphia issued the Supplemental Emergency Regulation Regarding COVID-19 and Chapter 9-4100 of the Philadelphia Code: Promoting Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, which temporarily expands the City’s Promoting Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, also known as the Sick Leave Law. The regulation allows covered workers to use their paid sick leave for COVID-19 (Coronavirus) related business closures, quarantine, and to stay home with their children during school closures. Employers cannot retaliate against workers who take sick leave for COVID-19 related reasons.

The Sick Leave Law applies to Philadelphia employers who have 10 or more workers. Eligible workers accrue one hour of sick time for every 40 hours worked, up to 40 hours per year.

Philadelphia workers can learn more about their rights under the City’s Sick Leave Law and obtain a complaint form on the City’s website.