On September 5, 2024, the Nova Scotia Government introduced Bill 464, Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia Act that will take effect in 2025.
Effective January 1, 2025, the following leaves will be added:
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Employees will be entitled to five additional unpaid sick days for general illness, bringing the total to eight unpaid days when combined with the current three-day allowance for medical appointments and family illness.
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Employees facing serious illness or injury will be eligible for up to 27 weeks of unpaid leave, offering significant job protection during their recovery period.
This change aligns with federal Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits and is designed to provide greater security for workers dealing with long-term health issues without fear of losing their jobs.
Employers should:
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Stay informed about the upcoming legislative changes.
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Review and revise their current sick leave policies to ensure compliance.
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Update policies and collective agreements to reflect the new legislative requirements for leave entitlements.