Executive Summary: On April 16, 2020, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Executive Order N-51-20 (the “Order”) requiring employers in the Food Sector to (1) provide their employees with paid sick leave due to COVID-19 and (2) permit their employees working in a food facility to wash their hands at least once every 30 minutes. The purpose of the Order is to help “reduce the spread of COVID-19” by providing Food Sector employees incentive (in the form of paid sick days) to call off from work if they have or potentially have COVID-19. As Food Sector employees work directly with members of the public and the food supply, there is a heightened risk of transmittal if such employees are infected. This Order is effective immediately and shall remain effective during the pendency of California’s stay-at-home order.
Home > State Law Articles > California > General (CA) > California’s Governor Signs Executive Order Requiring Paid Sick Leave and Handwashing Protections for Food Sector Workers