CT PAID LEAVE AUTHORITY PROVIDES LEAVE BENEFITS THAT ASSIST THOSE WITH MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS
Intermittent leave ideal for many seeking mental health care
The Connecticut Paid Leave Authority (CTPL) today reminded Connecticut residents that Connecticut’s Paid Leave Act (CTPL) may provide income replacements benefits for a mental health condition if it meets the criteria for a serious health condition. A serious health condition is an illness, injury or impairment or physical or mental condition that involves inpatient care or continuing treatment.
“When the legislature passed paid leave in 2019, they understood that mental health conditions can be just as serious as physical ones,” said CTPL CEO Andrea Barton Reeves. “By providing intermittent paid leave for time taken to see a therapist or participate in an out-patient program, Connecticut residents are able to continue their mental health treatment without interruption to their work or paycheck.”
For those affected by a substance use disorder (SUD), leave may be taken only for treatment for SUD by a healthcare provider or by a provider of health care services on referral by a healthcare provider, but not for absences caused by an employee’s use of the substance. If an employee who is eligible for Connecticut paid leave benefits reports that they need income replacement in connection with intermittent absences for a covered reason, the Connecticut Paid Leave Authority will pay income replacement benefits based on the reported time off.
“By giving people the ability to take time off to address chronic health conditions without losing a paycheck, we are removing obstacles to treatment and a path to recovery,” said DMHAS Commissioner Nancy Navarretta. “Removing these barriers to treatment for individuals living with mental health and substance use conditions creates new opportunities for individuals to seek help, reduces stigma, and promotes recovery-friendly workplaces.”
To apply for paid leave online, workers will first need to create an account with CT.gov. This will provide the applicant with a single identity and will take approximately 10 minutes. The applicant can then submit their claim online. Assistance is also available by calling (877) 499–8606. Hours of operation for a live representative are 8 AM to 8 PM ET, Monday through Friday.
For more information, please visit www.ctpaidleave.org.
