The City Council in a few weeks will consider a plan to offer up to three paid sick days a year to hourly employees, beginning July 1, city leaders and a state legislator announced Friday.
The benefit is the result of a bill authored by Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez that was signed into law by Gov. Jerry Brown.
Councilman Todd Gloria said the city's unions have agreed to terms of an implementation plan for the city. The plan will go to the City Council for approval soon, he said.
More than 1,360 city employees — mainly library and recreational staff, and hourly lifeguards — would be eligible.
"These staff members cannot take time off if they are sick, or if their child or their parent is ill and requires care," Gloria said. "As an employer, we should want these folks who regularly interact with the public to have the opportunity to take care of their health when they need to."
The legislation from Gonzalez entitles people employed in California for 30 or more days in a year to earn at least one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked.
She said she hopes the law will be good for businesses, too, with "a happier and healthier workforce and a more productive workforce."
According to Gloria, financial management staff has estimated the benefit will cost the city budget just over $471,000 annually.
