March 08, 2016
On Feb. 18, 2016, the D.C. Council enacted D.C. Act 21-322. The new law temporarily amends the D.C. Accrued Sick and Safe Leave Act of 2008 to clarify that certain employees (those in the building and construction industry) covered by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) are exempt from the paid leave requirements if the CBA states so. Specifically, to exempt those types of employees, the CBA must expressly waive the requirements “in clear and unambiguous terms.” The new law is effective for 225 days after Congress approves the law (which is expected on April 29, 2016). Employers in the building and construction industry that have previously entered into a CBA should review the CBA to see if the new law has any affect and the employer’s paid sick leave policies (including continuation of benefits during the leave). If questions arise, employers should work with outside counsel, since the issue involves other areas of law, such as labor and employment, which are beyond the scope of benefits.
D.C. Act 21-322 »