Bill > HB1855

This bill introduces the Climate-related Emergency Paid Leave Act, which requires employers in Pennsylvania to provide employees with up to 10 days of paid leave per calendar year during climate-related emergencies, such as floods, wildfires, extreme heat events, or severe storms. Employees can use this leave for personal injury, property loss, caring for affected family members, complying with evacuation orders, or addressing unsafe working conditions caused by these emergencies. The leave will be compensated at the employee's regular rate of pay and is immediately available without prior accrual. To support this initiative, the bill establishes the Climate-related Emergency Paid Leave Fund, which will reimburse employers for up to 50% of the paid leave costs, using money from state appropriations, federal disaster relief, and other public or private sources. The Department of Labor and Industry will administer the fund and enforce the law, with potential penalties for employers who fail to comply, including wage payments, administrative fines up to $1,000 per violation, and other appropriate relief. The bill recognizes that many workers, especially in low-wage jobs, lack paid leave and may be forced to choose between personal safety and income during climate emergencies. The legislation aims to provide economic stability and climate resilience by ensuring workers can protect themselves and their families without financial hardship.

Labor and Employment

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1855