Senate Bill (SB) 1105 introduces significant changes to existing paid sick leave provisions for agricultural employees in California. Effective January 1, 2025, the bill expands the paid sick leave benefits offered under the Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act of 2024 for agricultural employees.  

Key Points 

SB 1105 supplements the Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act of 2014 by allowing agricultural employees to use paid sick leave for a broader range of reasons. These include: 

• Attending to their own health needs 

• Caring for a family member; and  

• Addressing issues related to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.  

The bill also requires employers to inform their employees about these expanded provisions and maintain accurate records of the paid sick leave taken. 

Best Practices 

1. Educate and Inform Employees: Provide clear and comprehensive information about the expanded paid sick leave provisions through training sessions, informational materials, and regular communication. This will help employees understand how they can utilize their paid sick leave effectively and within company guidelines.
2. Regularly Review and Update Policies: Review and update workplace policies to ensure they align with the new requirements of SB 1105. This includes revising employee handbooks, sick leave policies, and any other relevant documentation to reflect the expanded paid sick leave provisions. 
3. Maintain Accurate Records: Proper documentation is essential for demonstrating compliance with SB 1105. Employers should, if they have not already, establish robust record-keeping practices to track the paid sick leave taken by their employees. This will assist with compliance and help in managing and planning workforce needs effectively.