THUNDER BAY – The Ontario government is expanding sick leave rules to guarantee job-protected leave for those unable to work due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That includes those in isolation or quarantine, as well as those caring for children due to school and childcare closures.
The measures are not yet passed into law, and with the provincial legislature not currently sitting, it’s unclear when they will be. However, the government is sending a clear signal to employers by promising the rules will be retroactive to Jan. 25 when passed
“While everyone’s concerns about their health and safety is top of mind, the last thing we need is anyone worrying about job security,” Premier Ford said in a release.
The new rules will also direct employers not to require sick notes to justify the leave, as long as the employee meets other requirements.
The government has said its legislation will provide job-protected unpaid medical leave for anyone in the following categories:
- Those in isolation or quarantine
- Anyone unable to work, in accordance with public health information or direction
- Anyone who needs to provide care to a person for a reason related to COVID-19, such as a school or childcare closure
- Those under medical investigation, supervision, or treatment for the virus
- Anyone acting in accordance with an order under the Health Protection and Promotion Act
- Those directed by an employer not to work
The job-protection measures are part of a broader provincial response that now includes the declaration of a state of emergency and the promise of expanded supports for affected workers and businesses.
