California Expands State Family Rights Act (CFRA) to Include Smaller Businesses

California Governor Gavin Newsome recently signed into law Senate Bill 1383. This bill called for the expansion of the California Family Rights Act to include businesses with at least 5 employees. This is a drastic change from its previous requirement, which was 50 employees. 

The bill also expands the group of family members covered under the act to include grandparents, grandchildren, and siblings. Previously, only parent, child, spouse, or registered domestic partners were included. Additionally, parents are now allowed to take time off to care for adult-age children, regardless of whether they are able to care for themselves. Before this change, parents could only take CFRA leave to care for their children over the age of 18 if the child was unable to care for themselves due to a physical or mental disability.

These changes will take effect on January 1, 2021. This act will bring much needed legal protection to many California workers employed by nearly every business. 

What Is The CFRA?

The California Family Rights Act is an act that provides legal protections for employees who need to take time off or request other accommodations to care for themself or a sick family member. The CFRA is similar to the federal Family Medical Leave Act but is broader in scope.  The act provides 12 weeks of unpaid leave during each 12-month period for qualifying medical situations with a right to return to the same or a comparable job at the end of the protected leave. Qualifying medical conditions include pregnancy, adoption, medical conditions requiring hospitalization, and other serious medical conditions. The employee is also able to keep their employer-sponsored benefits, like health insurance, during the protected leave.

Call Davtyan Law Firm To Protect Your Rights

The ever-changing nature of employment law can be difficult to navigate on your own. The CFRA allows employers to require certain notices, use of vacation or sick time, and other formalities in order to qualify. These requirements can make it seem impossible to acquire this kind of leave, but the legal team at Davtyan Law may be able to help.

If you believe your legal rights have been violated by your employer or need help understanding your CFRA rights, you may need the help of an experienced California employment lawyer. The legal team at Davtyan Law Firm focuses exclusively on employment law for California workers. Call us today at (818) 275-5799 to discuss your situation and decide if you need legal representation. 

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