Gov. Pritzker signs bill allowing COVID paid leave for vaccinated school employees

CHICAGO (CBS)-- Governor Pritzker on Tuesday signed legislation ensuring vaccinated school staff can take COVID-required sick time.

The legislation requires public school districts, public universities, and community colleges to provide paid leave to fully vaccinated teachers and other employees for time off related to COVID-19.

It's a compromise with the Illinois Education Association and the Illinois Federation of Teachers.

It allows paid leave for employees who got vaccinated, but must quarantine or take care of a quarantined child who can't go to school because of a positive COVID test.

Supporters said the bill protects employees and students by allowing school workers who are sick to stay home to protect others, without risking a loss of pay.

The new rules take effect immediately.