LEAVE DURING COVID-19
LEAVE DURING COVID-19
EMPLOYMENT LAWS PROTECT CALIFORNIA LEAVE RIGHTS DURING THE PANDEMIC
The sudden change in our work lives caused by COVID-19 has employees wondering about their right to take leaves. You have the right to take time away from work whether it is because you have contracted COVID-19 or need leave for some other valid reason such as caring for an ill relative.
Many employers are facing a surge in worker leave requests. Whether they are doing it intentionally or not, employers are illegally denying employees paid leaves they are legally entitled to take. If you or a family member has COVID-19 in Southern California and you have legal concerns, call our employment attorneys at Diefer Law Group.
If you were illegally denied a leave, you have legal options.
LAWS PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS IN THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES
There are several California and federal laws that protect your right to take a leave. They also protect you if your child’s school or daycare is closed.
Paid sick leave is an option. It allows time off for diagnosis, recovery and treatment. That includes preventative care and quarantine. Your employer cannot make you take paid sick leave. If you choose this option, your employer can require you to take at least two hours off. The decision on how many hours beyond that is your option.
There might be other options available if your child is home from school. Employers that have more than 25 workers can provide up to 40 hours of leave time for school-specific emergencies.
ADDITIONAL OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE
They include:
- Disability insurance
- Paid family leave
- Unemployment insurance
- Worker’s compensation
RETALIATION IS ILLEGAL
Your employer cannot retaliate. If you are impacted by COVID-19, you might have the right to take a leave. For help navigating California’s employment and leave laws, contact our employment lawyers at our Irvine, Dana Point, Los Angeles, Riverside or San Diego offices. Call us at 888-301-7795 or visit our contact page.
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