With the recent uptick in flu cases — you know, the highest level we’ve seen in a decade — it’s more important than ever to prioritize our health, even if it feels like we don’t have the time.
The New York City Earned Safe and Sick Time Act (ESSTA) and Temporary Schedule Change Act (TSCA) are gearing up for changes in 2026, so you don’t have to stress about Excel sheets or board meetings while you’re coughing and sniffling at home on the couch.
Put the laptop down, grab the tissues, and we’ll tell you everything you need to know.
What to expect from the New York City Earned Safe and Sick Time Act (ESSTA)
There are plenty of laws going into effect in NYC in 2026, and EESTA and TSCA changes are expected to make sick time more flexible for employees.
According to the New York City Council, employees will be entitled to additional unpaid safe/sick time. Additionally, it is available immediately upon hire and within the start of each calendar year. Amendments to the law state:
This bill would also provide an additional 32 hours of unpaid safe/sick time under ESSTA, which would be available for use immediately upon hire and subsequently on the first day of each calendar year. The unpaid safe/sick time would replace the two days that were provided by the City’s Temporary Schedule Change Act (TSCA), however, employees would still be able to request temporary changes to their work schedule subject to approval by their employer.
The amendments were introduced during the fall, and the changes will go into effect on Sunday, February 22nd, 2026. For more on the legal logistics taking place in NYC this year, visit nyc.gov.