SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) – No one wants to be sick at work, but for some New Mexico workers, earning paid sick leave is a challenge. But thanks to a bill passed in 2021, New Mexicans will soon have a right to paid sick leave.

Called the “Healthy Workplaces Act,” the bill was passed during the 2021 legislative session. As of July 1, 2022, the new law will go into effect. State officials in charge of administering the law say it’s ultimately intended to help both employees and employers.

“New Mexico is not alone in recognizing that paid sick leave can benefit employees and employers. 15 other states and almost 150 other countries around the world enacted laws requiring some form of paid sick leave.” Kimberly Souders, the acting director of the Labor Relations Division for the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, said in a presentation to employers.

And because paid sick leave can help reduce turnover and keep employees operating at their best, “it really is good for business,” Souders said.

Employee rights

The act requires all private New Mexico businesses to pay earned sick leave to employees. Starting July 1, 2022, this will apply to all businesses, regardless of the size of the business.

New Mexico-based employees are granted this right, as long as they work within the state of New Mexico. That means even if their employer is based in another location, if they’re a New Mexico-based worker, an employee is eligible for paid sick leave.

This applies to full-time,...

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