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Newsom, lawmakers reach deal to extend supplemental paid COVID sick leave

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story contained incorrect information about the status of the agreement, which has yet to be approved.

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Governor Gavin Newsom announced Tuesday he and other California leaders have reached a deal to extend paid COVID-19 sick leave for employees through Sept. 30.

The agreement will be finalized through budget action. Lawmakers are likely to fast-track the legislation to Newsom in the upcoming weeks, the Los Angeles Times reported.

“California’s ability to take early budget action will protect workers and provide real relief to businesses reeling from this latest surge,” state officials said in a new release. “By extending sick leave to frontline workers with COVID and providing support for California businesses, we can help protect the health of our workforce, while also ensuring that businesses and our economy are able to thrive.”

The effective date is still to be determined.

The other leaders involved in this framework are Senate President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon.