Most private employers within the city limits of Pittsburgh are now required to provide some paid sick days to all of their workers. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday that the City of Pittsburgh has the authority to require private businesses to provide sick leave to their employees. The City’s Ordinance, passed in August 2015, requires employers with 15 or more employees to give them up to 40 hours of paid sick leave per year. Employers with fewer than 15 employees must provide up to 24 hours of paid sick leave per year.
The Ordinance was challenged by the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association and several Pittsburgh businesses including Church Brew Works, the Modern Cafe and Rita’s Italian Ice. The Commonwealth Court and trial court agreed with their arguments and ruled against the City. However, the Supreme Court reversed those decisions and upheld the Ordinance by a 4-3 majority. The four justices found that it is within Pittsburgh’s “express statutory authority to legislate in furtherance of disease control and prevention.”Given this change in the law, companies should be diligent in reviewing their paid time off policies. MBM’s Employment Law Team can ensure your compliance with the Ordinance and other laws related to paid time off. Please contact us at [email protected] or 412-242.4400.