Connecticut has expanded the reasons covered employees can use leave under the state’s 2012 paid sick and safe leave (PSSL) law. These changes will take effect October 1, 2023.

Background

• Connecticut’s PSSL law allows covered employees to accrue paid leave at a rate of one hour per 40 hours worked, up to a maximum of 40 hours of PSSL per year.
• The law is limited in its application, covering only employers with 50 or more Connecticut employees, and covering only employees who are “service workers” (hourly workers in industries such as retail, healthcare, hospitality, custodial, and food service).

Expanded Reasons for Leave

• Effective October 1, 2023, employees may use PSSL for the following reasons:
  • Mental health wellness days, defined as days on which individuals are absent from work in order to attend to their emotional and psychological well-being
  • To care for a child, for whom the employee is a parent or guardian, who is a victim of violence or sexual assault by someone other than the parent
• Covered employers should update their leave policies to align with the new PSSL requirements prior to the effective date.