New changes made to Shared Leave program
Human Resources wants to inform you of a few changes that stemmed from this past legislative session regarding Governor Inslee’s , specifically as it relates to shared leave.
On March 17, 2020, the governor signed into law several meaningful changes to the Shared Leave program, including the following change to include COVID-19 related leave.
Employees may qualify for shared leave if the employee or relative or household member is isolated or quarantined as recommended, requested, or ordered by a public health official or health care provider as a result of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection or exposure during the declared state of emergency.
Additional changes were made to the shared leave language under RCW 41.04.665(1)(f) for COVID-19 effective April 10, 2020. The purpose of the shared leave changes as a result of Proclamation 20-43 is to expand shared leave to a broader audience in order to help reduce the impacts of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 on employees. This includes those employees who have been determined to fall in the high-risk category, or those who need leave for lack of childcare reasons. An employee who has the option to telework and declines to do so would not be eligible for shared leave.
How do I apply for Shared Leave for COVID-19 related reasons?
To receive Shared Leave, you must be an employee that is entitled to accrue sick and/or vacation leave, have a qualifying reason, and have depleted or will deplete accrued leaving no more than 40 hours of applicable leave in reserves.
Complete Form, and email to HR.Disability@wwu.edu.
How long can I apply for COVID-19 related Shared Leave?
Until the expiration of Proclamation 20-05 (Stay Home – Stay Healthy) issued by Governor Inslee and declaring a state of emergency in the state of Washington, or any amendment to this proclamation, whichever is later, Western may permit an employee to receive Shared Leave relating to COVID-19.
What if I have questions about Shared Leave?
Please contact Julie Moon at Julie.Moon@wwu.edu or 360-650-3771.