California's new "Designated Person" standards could have a significant impact on employers, as they will need to update their leave of absence (LOA) forms and processes to comply with the new law.
The new standards, which go into effect on January 1, 2023, expand the definition of "family member" to include a "designated person." A designated person is defined as "any individual related by blood or whose association with the employee is the equivalent of a family relationship." This means that employees will now be able to take leave to care for a wider range of people, including friends, neighbors, and co-workers.
Employers will need to update their LOA forms to reflect the new definition of "family member." They will also need to update their leave policies and procedures to ensure that they comply with the new law. For example, employers may need to provide additional training to their managers and supervisors on how to handle leave requests from employees who are caring for a designated person.
The new standards could also have an impact on the way that employers track and manage leave. Employers may need to create new leave categories for designated persons and develop new systems for tracking and reporting leave usage.
The new standards are a significant change for employers, and they will need to take steps to comply with the law. Employers should consult with an attorney to ensure that they are in compliance with the new standards.
Here are some tips for employers to update their LOA forms and process:
Review your current LOA forms and policies to ensure that they comply with the new standards
Create new leave categories for designated persons.
Develop new systems for tracking and reporting leave usage.
Provide additional training to your managers and supervisors on how to handle leave requests from employees who are caring for a designated person.
Consult with an attorney to ensure that you are in compliance with the new standards.
The new standards could have a positive impact on employees, as they will now be able to take leave to care for a wider range of people. However, employers will need to take steps to comply with the law.
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