B.C. brings new serious illness or injury leave provision into force for employees

Plain-language summary · AI-assisted · not legal advice

British Columbia has proclaimed section 2 of the Employment Standards (Serious Illness or Injury Leave) Amendment Act, 2025 into force. This provision introduces or modifies a leave entitlement for employees dealing with a serious illness or injury. Employers covered by the B.C. Employment Standards Act will need to review and update their leave policies to reflect this new or expanded entitlement. Employees who experience a qualifying serious illness or injury may be entitled to take protected leave under these rules. Affected parties should review the underlying amendment act for the specific conditions, duration, and notice requirements that apply.

Who this affects: B.C. employers subject to the Employment Standards Act · employees experiencing a serious illness or injury · human resources and payroll administrators · employment lawyers and HR consultants