California’s SB 1105: Expanding Paid Sick Leave – What It Means for Wine Industry Employers and Workers

Employers • By Editor • Published on January 20

Starting January 1, 2025, California’s Senate Bill 1105 (SB 1105) is expanding paid sick leave benefits for agricultural workers, including those in the state’s wine industry. This new law builds on the existing Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act by broadening the circumstances in which employees can use their paid sick leave and adding new responsibilities for employers.

Key Changes Under SB 1105:

  • Broader Use of Sick Leave: Agricultural employees can now use paid sick leave not only for personal illness or injury but also to care for a family member or address issues related to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
  • Employer Responsibilities: Employers must inform workers about these expanded rights and maintain accurate records of sick leave usage to ensure compliance with the updated law.

Impact on the Wine Industry

For wine industry employers, SB 1105 requires adjustments to policies and procedures to ensure compliance with these changes. Vineyards and wineries will need to educate employees about the new provisions, update employee handbooks, and enhance record-keeping systems. While there may be some administrative work involved, the long-term benefits of a healthier and better-informed workforce will far outweigh the initial investment.

Best Practices for Wine Industry Employers:

  • Educate Employees: Ensure that workers fully understand how to use their paid sick leave under the new provisions. Clear communication, training, and easy-to-access informational materials are essential.
  • Update Policies: Revise employee handbooks, sick leave policies, and other relevant documents to reflect the new regulations. Regularly reviewing and updating policies will help ensure continued compliance.
  • Maintain Accurate Records: Strengthen or implement record-keeping practices to track paid sick leave usage, which will help ensure compliance and improve workforce management.

Conclusion

SB 1105 represents a significant step forward in improving health protections for agricultural workers, including those in California’s wine industry. While the bill introduces new requirements for employers, the expanded paid sick leave benefits will ultimately lead to a healthier, more productive workforce. By adapting to these changes, employers can contribute to the long-term success of their teams and operations.