Nova Scotia is increasing paid domestic violence leave from three to five days, effective April 1.
The change aims to give employees more time to access essential medical, legal and social support services, according to a press release. Currently, employees with at least three months of service are eligible for up to 16 continuous weeks of domestic violence leave. In addition, an employee can take 10 continuous or intermittent days, which includes three paid days.
“Domestic violence affects too many Nova Scotians,” said Nolan Young, Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration, in the release. “By extending paid leave, we are helping employees seek the support they need without the added concern of lost income.”
This decision was made after consultations with community partners, including unions, employers and advocacy groups. The release noted the change also aligns with the 2024 bill declaring intimate partner violence an epidemic, as well as recommendations from the Mass Casualty Commission, the Desmond Fatality Inquiry and the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
Read: B.C. introducing legislation for paid domestic, sexual violence leave