Delicate Subject: Sick Leave Policies

Some Camden City firefighters are coming under fire - once again - for allegedly abusing their sick leave policy. They are accused of calling out sick for almost half the year – retiring early using sick days racked up over their careers. How? Well, they may roll over sick days and cash them in. At the same time, co-workers can rack up lots of overtime, thus costing taxpayers millions.

Union leaders for the Camden City firefighters say that they are well within their sick leave  policy that has been negotiated decade-after-decade in their contracts, with the city and state.

Local 2578’s President Al Ashley told Fox 29’s Joyce Evans that their union is in negotiations with the city right now and paid sick leave is not an issue. He added, if this is a problem, now is the time to put it out on the table and negotiate.

A statement from Mayor Red’s office reads. “This administration will continue to work with the State and our Fire Department to make appropriate realignments where needed to properly manage sick time and find other cost saving measures that will benefit taxpayers - all while not sacrificing public safety."

This example of alleged abuse of sick leave policy beckoned the question: Is sick-leave  policy abuse a nationwide problem?  If so - why have the policies remained unchanged?

What happens in your workplace if you do not use your sick days? Do you even get any? Is it a use it or lose it situation?

There are many questions but one thingis certain: this is a delicate subject.  

We will explore this subject  all week on Fox 29.  Watch for our follow-up reports and tell us what you think.