Sick leave mandate begins in Philadelphia

Philadelphia’s law requiring paid sick time for private-sector employees kicks in Wednesday.  

It took three tries for the earned sick time bill to win approval from Philadelphia City Council without a veto.  Councilman Bill Greenlee said he’s thankful the legislation finally is taking effect.

“Starting today, you can earn one hour of sick time for every 40 hours worked, and the maximum of 40 hours a year or, as we call it, five days a year,” he said.

The law is under attack in Harrisburg with a bill that would overrule a city sick time law, but Greenlee is hopeful it will remain in place.

“We’re still confident that law won’t get finalized. We have been talking to members of the House,” he said. “We’re hoping, if it does get through the House, the governor will veto it and there aren’t the votes to override.”

Philadelphia’s law mandates businesses with 10 or more employees provide paid sick time for their workers. Other businesses must provide unpaid leave.