Since 2017, almost every Arizona employee has been entitled to paid sick leave under the Fair Wages and Healthy Families Act. The accrual is small per hour worked, but it adds up over a year — and most workers don't know they have it.
Every employee — full-time, part-time, temporary — accrues 1 hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked. Tipped employees, hourly, and salaried all qualify.
Employers with 15+ employees: 40 hours/year. Employers under 15: 24 hours/year. You can carry over unused time, though employers can cap your usable balance at the same yearly limit.
Your own illness, a family member's illness, preventive care, public health emergencies (school or workplace closure), and absences related to domestic violence, sexual violence, or stalking all qualify.
Employers can require advance notice if foreseeable and reasonable documentation only if absent for 3+ consecutive days. Single-day or 2-day uses can't require a doctor's note.
Firing or disciplining an employee for using paid sick leave is barred. You can file a complaint with the Industrial Commission of Arizona, which can recover back pay and impose penalties.
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