Connecticut Paid Sick Leave Reaches All Employers on January 1, 2027

Figures here are for general information. Wages, amounts and dates can change or differ from the official values. Always confirm them with the official state or federal agency before you rely on them.

Connecticut has been adding employers to its paid sick leave law in steps. On January 1, 2027, the last step takes effect. The law then covers employers with one or more employees in the state. This page uses the Connecticut Department of Labor (DOL) as its main source.

The phase-in dates

The DOL paid sick leave FAQ lists these dates:

The DOL says the number of employees is based on the employer’s payroll for the week that contains January 1. The Connecticut General Assembly’s Public Act 24-8 is the law that made this change.

How leave is earned

• Employees earn 1 hour of leave for every 30 hours worked.
• An employee can earn at most 40 hours a year.
• An employee can use the leave after the 120th calendar day of employment. Employers may allow it sooner.

Reasons to use the leave

The DOL lists these reasons:

• The employee or a family member is ill, injured or has a health condition.
• Diagnosis or treatment of a physical or mental illness or injury.
• Preventive medical care.
• A mental health wellness day.
• A public health closure of the workplace, or of a family member’s school or place of care.
• Exposure to a communicable disease that could put others at risk.
• Family violence or sexual assault, for medical care, counseling, victim services, relocation or legal proceedings.

Who is not covered

The DOL says the law does not cover:

• Seasonal employees, who work 120 days or less in a year.
• Certain construction trades workers in qualifying multiemployer health plans.
• Self-employed people.

What small employers should do

Employers with fewer than 11 employees are new to the law in 2027. Read the DOL FAQ for the full rules on records, notices and pay. Employees can also use that page to learn their rights.

Common questions

When does Connecticut paid sick leave cover all employers?

On January 1, 2027, when it applies to employers with one or more employees in Connecticut.

How much leave can I earn?

You earn 1 hour for every 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours a year.

When can I start using my leave?

After your 120th calendar day of employment, unless your employer allows it sooner.

Does this repeat the laws on our other state law page?

No. Our page on new state laws taking effect January 1, 2027 covers different laws.

Sources

• Connecticut Department of Labor, Paid Sick Leave FAQs
• Connecticut General Assembly, Public Act 24-8 (Substitute House Bill 5005)