A New York City councilman recently introduced a bill to amend New York City’s paid sick leave law to allow employees to take paid sick leave to care for pets and service animals. The proposed law would cover the care of a pet “that needs medical diagnosis, care or treatment of a physical illness, injury, or health condition or that needs preventative medical care.” The bill comes at a time when various states are considering paid sick leave laws and awareness of mental health is growing. The sponsor of the bill explained that the bill is intended to help address New Yorkers’ mental health by encouraging pet ownership which he says supports mental health. The bill is currently in committee.
