Berkeley supplements California paid sick leave with a stronger local accrual cap, broader family definitions, and tighter coverage for small employers, all enforced through the city Office of Labor Standards Enforcement.
BMC Chapter 13.100 grants employees one hour of paid sick leave for every thirty hours worked. Small employers with fewer than twenty-five workers cap accrual at forty-eight hours, while larger employers cap at seventy-two hours, both above the California state floor. Family covered includes designated persons, blood relatives, chosen family, and domestic partners. Workers may use leave for their own illness, family care, safe time after domestic violence, and public health emergencies. Employers must post notices, retain records for four years, and refrain from retaliation. Carryover is required, and tracked balances appear on paystubs.
Denying accrual, retaliating against use, or failing to maintain records can mean back pay, liquidated damages, civil penalties, and individual liability for owners or managers who direct violations.
See how other cities in Alameda County handle paid leave preemption.
See how Berkeley's paid leave preemption rules stack up against other locations.
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