Late last week, the Government of Ontario signaled that they would be giving in to public demand for paid sick leave for the benefit of workers impacted by COVID-19. On Monday, the government announced that they would be working to provide sick leave through a $500 per week top up of EI benefits administered through the Federal government. While negotiations on this front appear to be ongoing, the government of Ontario has in the meantime announced that it will be introducing new legislation, which, if passed, would offer up to three paid sick days per employee.
This legislation would require employers to provide employees with up to $200 of pay for up to three days if they are missing work because of COVID-19. This program would be retroactive to April 19, 2021 and effective until September 25, 202.
To allay concerns from employers, the government has indicated that they will partner with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board to deliver the program and reimburse employers up to $200 per day for each employee.
PooranLaw will continue to monitor legal developments related to paid sick leave arrangements. In the meantime, if you require legal assistance, we encourage you to reach out to your regular PooranLaw lawyer, or any member of our team.
