The government of British Columbia is proposing a significant change to the province’s Employment Standards Act that would allow individuals facing severe illnesses or injuries to take up to 27 weeks of unpaid leave annually.
During a news conference held in Victoria, Premier David Eby announced that this proposed amendment could come into effect this autumn pending approval from the New Democrat majority government.
Eby emphasized that this extended leave would provide much-needed support for those undergoing intensive medical treatments like chemotherapy, allowing them the time to focus on their health without the added stress of balancing work commitments.
Highlighting the importance of job security during health crises, Eby stated, “Facing a major health issue is incredibly challenging. Knowing that your job will be waiting for you when you’re ready to return after treatment is a significant relief for individuals dealing with such circumstances.”
Labour Minister Jennifer Whiteside echoed Eby’s sentiments, emphasizing that workers should have the assurance of being able to return to their jobs once they are medically cleared to do so.
Whiteside pointed out that while the Human Rights Code in British Columbia prohibits discrimination based on disability, the existing employment standards legislation lacks specific provisions to safeguard the job security of individuals unable to work due to long-term illnesses or injuries.
The proposed adjustments aim to align the Employment Standards Act with the protections outlined in the Human Rights Code, ensuring that workers have the necessary support during challenging health situations.
In addition to individuals facing catastrophic illnesses, survivors of intimate partner violence, including those exhibiting signs of traumatic brain injury, would also be covered by the proposed law change.
Whiteside emphasized the importance of job protection for survivors of intimate partner violence, noting that ensuring their employment security could encourage them to seek essential support services for their recovery.
The potential changes in legislation would bring British Columbia in line with similar standards already established in other Canadian provinces like Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec, as well as federally regulated industries and workplaces.
The proposed leave would be accessible to all workers covered by the Employment Standards Act who are unable to work due to a serious personal illness or injury lasting at least seven consecutive days, with the flexibility to take the leave intermittently throughout the year.
Workers seeking this leave would be required to provide a medical certificate from a doctor or nurse practitioner confirming their inability to work due to health reasons.