Providence, RI Employment Preemption: Paid Leave Preemption (2026)
Key Facts
- State law
- RI 28-57
- Annual cap
- 40 hours paid
- Threshold
- 18 plus employees
- Enforcement
- DLT
Summary
The Rhode Island Healthy and Safe Families and Workplaces Act, RI 28-57, requires employers with 18 or more workers to provide up to 40 hours of paid sick leave annually. Providence cannot legislate higher.
All employees employed by an employer of eighteen (18) or more employees in Rhode Island shall accrue a minimum of one hour of paid sick and safe leave time for every thirty five (35) hours worked... Employees employed by an employer with eighteen (18) or more employees in Rhode Island shall not be entitled to use more than twenty four (24) hours of paid sick and safe leave time in calendar year 2018; thirty two (32) hours in 2019; and forty (40) hours in calendar year 2020 and each subsequent year.
Full Breakdown
Under Rhode Island General Laws 28-57, employees accrue at least one hour of paid sick leave for every 35 hours worked, capped at 40 hours per year for employers with eighteen or more staff. Smaller employers must provide unpaid leave with job protection. Coverage extends to mental health days, school closures, and care for family members. The Department of Labor and Training enforces violations. Providence cannot exceed the state floor, but the city may apply richer paid-leave rules to its own employees and city contracts.
Violations & Fines
Refusing earned sick leave, retaliating against users, or skipping recordkeeping triggers Department of Labor and Training penalties and possible private suits with damages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the law cover part-time workers?
Can Providence add bigger benefits?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Providence
Compare Providence to another location·View the Rhode Island employment preemption overview
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