The Vermont Earned Sick Time Law (ESTL) is a state law that entitles employees to accrue paid sick time. The law was passed in 2016 and went into effect on January 1, 2017.

The ESTL applies to all employers with five or more employees. Employees are entitled to accrue one hour of earned sick time for every 52 hours worked, up to a maximum of 40 hours per year. Employees can use earned sick time for any reason, including:

• Their own illness or injury
• The illness or injury of a family member
• To care for a child or family member who is the victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking
• To attend a medical or legal appointment related to the employee’s own health or the health of a family member
• To volunteer at a nonprofit organization that provides services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking

Employers are not allowed to:

• Require employees to get a doctor’s note before using earned sick time
• Deny an employee’s request to use earned sick time
• Discriminate against an employee for using earned sick time

Employees who believe that their employer has violated the ESTL can file a complaint with the Vermont Department of Labor. The Department of Labor can investigate the complaint and take enforcement action, if necessary.

The ESTL is a valuable law that helps to ensure that employees have the time they need to stay healthy and care for their families. If you are an employee in Vermont, you should be aware of your rights under the ESTL.

Here are some additional details about the law:

• The law does not apply to:
  • Employers with fewer than five employees
  • Domestic employees
  • Interstate transportation workers
  • Certain agricultural workers
• Employees who are paid on a piece-rate basis are entitled to earn earned sick time at the same rate as other employees.
• Employees who are laid off or fired are entitled to use any accrued earned sick time before their employment ends.
• Employers are required to post a notice about the ESTL in a conspicuous place in the workplace.

The Vermont Earned Sick Time Law is a positive step for workers in the state. It provides much-needed flexibility and security for employees, and it helps to promote a healthier workforce.