California paid sick leave
Under the Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act, employees accrue 1 hour per 30 hours worked, up to 80 hours a year.
Informational, not legal advice. Checked against Congressional Research Service report R48921 and the state's own labour department. Statutes change every session — confirm against the primary source linked below before setting a policy. Last verified 18 August 2026.
The rule, in detail
| Accrual rate | 1 hour per 30 hours worked |
|---|---|
| Annual accrual cap | 80 hours |
| Annual use cap | 40 hours |
| Carryover | Permitted, capped at 80 hours |
| Frontloading allowed | Yes |
| Waiting period before use | 90 days |
| Employer size threshold | All employers |
| Payout on termination | Not required |
| Effective from | 1 January 2024 |
Notes
Accrual cap 80 hours; use may be capped at 40 hours (5 days) a year. Frontloading 40 hours is an alternative to accrual.
Covered reasons
- Employee illness
- Family care
- Preventive care
- Domestic violence
- Designated person
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