B.C.'s 5-day paid sick leave program for workers is now in effect
CTV
Most workers in B.C. are now entitled to a minimum number of paid sick days each year as the province's new program comes into effect.
Most workers in B.C. are now entitled to a minimum number of paid sick days each year as the province's new program comes into effect.
The program officially began Jan. 1 and ensures workers who have been with an organization for at least 90 days gets a minimum of five paid days off per year if they're sick. The requirement is in place for all workers – including part-time employees – covered under the Employment Standards Act.
"Until now, about half of B.C. workers have been unable to stay home when sick without losing wages," said Minister of Labour Harry Bains in a news release.
"Many of those are lower-paid workers who can least afford to lose the money and, as a result, end up going to work sick. Paid sick leave is the right thing to do, and it is now in British Columbia permanently."
In May, B.C. announced a temporary COVID-19 sick pay program, offering workers three days of paid leave for circumstances related to the coronavirus. Businesses had access to a provincial fund to offset costs. When that was implemented, officials said this would pave the way for a permanent program.
British Columbians and industry members were then asked to give feedback on the program, including whether the permanent one should be three, five or 10 days. In the end, the province picked the five-day option.
The cost of the paid time off will be covered by employers, which the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade previously said could impact small- and medium-sized businesses.