British Columbia has now formally introduced paid leave for employees whom are receiving a COVID-19 vaccination.

The Employment Standards Amendment Act, 2021 (Bill 3) received Royal Assent on April 27, 2021.  The Bill amends the Employment Standards Act to introduce a paid three (3) hour leave for employees, for purposes of being vaccinated against COVID-19.

In order to be entitled to the paid leave, an employee must request the leave, for purposes of being vaccinated against COVID-19.  Where an employee does so, an employer is required to pay an employee their average hourly wage for the leave period taken (to a maximum of 3 hours).

Employers, while entitled to request proof of entitlement to the leave, are expressly prohibited from requiring a medical note for purposes of a COVID-19 vaccination leave request. 

If you have any questions about this matter, other COVID-19 related issues, or would like any other workplace law assistance, please contact a Mathews Dinsdale lawyer, or refer to the Firm’s COVID-19 website resources.