California (and Federal) Medical Leave Laws Expanded To Include Caring For Non-Family Member

Beginning January 1, 2023, employees will be able to use their California paid sick leave to care for a “designated person.” Employers with five or more employees also will have to allow employees to take state family and medical leave (under the California Family Rights Act, or CFRA) to care for a “designated person.” With both leaves, the person designated does not need to have a blood or family relationship with the employee, although it should be “the equivalent of a family relationship” for CFRA leave.

Essentially, there is no longer a requirement that state and federal medical leave be granted only to care for an immediate family member. For example, uncles, aunts and cousins may qualify. The law looks to see if the designated person has the equivalent of a family relationship.

Should you have questions regarding this topic or any other, please feel free to direct your questions to Christopher Taylor, Esq. at (626) 219-6008.