The Carer's Leave Act of 2023 will bring significant changes for both employees and employers. The act now guarantees eligible employees the right to take up to twelve weeks of unpaid leave per year to care for a loved one. This leave can be taken all at once or in increments of no less than one week at a time. This Bill was passed on the 24 May 2023 and is expected to take effect in 2024.
Employers are now required to provide written notice to employees of their rights under the Carer's Leave Act.
They must also ensure that employees who take advantage of the leave are reinstated to their previous position or an equivalent position upon their return to work.
The act also includes provisions to prevent discrimination against employees who take carer's leave. Employers may not retaliate or take adverse action against an employee who exercises their right to take leave under the act.
