British Columbians encouraged to have their say on paid sick leave options

British Columbians are encouraged to give their opinion on three paid sick leave options.

The options, which have been posted on the provincial government’s website, would cover a minimum of either three, five, or ten days of paid sick leave.

“One of the most critical lessons from the pandemic has been the importance of people staying home when they are sick,” said Minister of Labour Harry Bains. “No one should have to choose between going to work sick or losing wages. Paid sick leave is good for businesses, good for workers and good for our communities. We’re asking for input on the next step toward making paid sick leave a permanent reality for British Columbia.”

According to the province, over 26,000 surveys were completed by workers and employers between August 5th and September 14th. According to the province, results from the survey, 60% of employers do not offer employer-paid sick days. Of the employers that do offer paid sick leave to their employees, around 45% provide 3-5 days, around 25% provide 6-10 days, around 20% more than 10 days, and around 10% provide less than three.

The province says feedback from these surveys, as well as comments from the engagement on the options paper, will help create a made-in-BC permanent paid personal illness leave. Following the public engagement process, paid sick leave will be established through regulation and come into effect on January 1st, 2020.