Sick leave laws can vary widely by state or city. Because of that, it can be hard to know the rules for your area. This article aims to act as a directory for the various paid sick leave laws by state and city in the U.S. You can also find answers by contacting the appropriate local authority or reviewing the ordinance online.
What are sick leave laws?
Sick leave laws are the federal, state, and local rules that govern an employee's right to take job-protected or paid time off work due to illness, injury, or related medical needs. These laws vary widely by jurisdiction: some, like the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), guarantee unpaid, job-protected leave for serious health conditions at qualifying employers, while others require paid sick leave, mandating that employers provide a set amount of paid time off, often based on accrual rates tied to hours worked.
Many states and cities have their own local ordinances layering additional or more generous requirements on top of federal law, and coverage can extend beyond personal illness to include caring for a family member, responding to a declared public health emergency, or taking safe leave related to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
Paid sick leave laws by state (and city)
Below is a list of a few states and cities that have passed sick leave ordinances, including links to the specific ordinances or other resources.
City/State Agency Resources
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Berkeley, Emeryville, Los Angeles, Oakland, San Diego, San Francisco, Santa Monica, West Hollywood | |
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Pennsylvania | |
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FAQs
Does Delaware have a statewide paid sick leave mandate?
No, but it does have a separate Delaware Paid Leave (paid family and medical leave) program that took effect January 1, 2026, replacing 80% of average weekly wages (up to $900/week) for things like an employee's own serious health condition. Coverage depends on employer size. Businesses with fewer than 10 employees are exempt, 10-24 employees must offer parental leave only, and 25+ employees must offer full coverage (parental, medical, family caregiver, and military exigency leave).
Does Texas have a statewide paid sick leave mandate?
No. Cities like Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas have tried to pass local ordinances, but Texas courts struck them down, and the state's 2023 preemption law (HB 2127, the Texas Regulatory Consistency Act) blocks cities from mandating employment benefits like paid sick leave.
Does Missouri have a statewide paid sick leave mandate?
Not currently. Missouri voters approved a paid sick leave law (Proposition A) in November 2024, which took effect May 1, 2025, but the state legislature repealed it.
Does Georgia have a statewide paid sick leave mandate?
No, but the Georgia Family Care Act requires employers with 25+ employees that voluntarily offer paid sick leave to let employees use up to 5 days of it per year for family caregiving.
Are independent contractors eligible for sick leave under any US state law?
No, independent contractors are excluded from paid sick leave coverage under nearly every state and local law. Coverage hinges on being classified as an employee.
Quick note: This is not to be taken as legal or HR advice. Since employment laws change over time and can vary by location and industry, consult a lawyer or HR expert for specific guidance. Learn about Gusto's HR services
