Changes to the Employment Standards Code are being made to allow Manitoba workers to take a three-hour paid leave to receive their COVID-19 vaccinations.

The proposed amendments would force employers to allow employees up to three hours of paid leave each time they require a dose of vaccine. The province says the rate the employee would receive is fixed at the regular wage rate an employee receives or for employees whose wage varies the average wage they would receive.

Under the legislation employers would be able to require reasonable verification of the necessity of the leave as soon as possible. Employers will not be able to request doctors notes or medical certificates.

“We’ve heard most employers in Manitoba are already offering paid vaccination leave to their employees, and we thank them for understanding the importance of a vaccinated workforce,” said Finance Minister Scott Fielding. “We all have a role to play in protecting ourselves and our community, and we want to encourage employees and employers to do the right thing.”

© News4.ca 2021