Saskatchewan will implement new employment standards rules in January that limit when employers can request sick notes and prohibit withholding tips from workers, according to the provincial government.
The amendments to The Saskatchewan Employment Act take effect Jan. 1, 2026, and aim to balance worker protections with business flexibility, Deputy Premier and Labour Relations Minister Jim Reiter said.
Key changes for employers
The new rules allow employers to use calendar days instead of 24-hour periods when calculating work schedules and overtime, according to the government. This change gives businesses more scheduling flexibility while maintaining overtime protections for workers.
Employers will face new restrictions on requesting medical documentation from sick employees. The amendment limits when sick notes can be required, though the government did not specify the exact circumstances.
Tip protection and termination thresholds
The legislation prohibits employers from withholding tips from employees, ensuring workers keep gratuities paid by customers, the government said.
Companies planning group layoffs will see the notification threshold increase from 10 to 25 employees. Employers must still notify affected workers, the minister and relevant unions before proceeding with group terminations, according to the amendment.
Enhanced enforcement powers
The director of employment standards will gain authority to order employee reinstatement and compensation for lost wages in discrimination cases, the government said. This gives the province more tools to address workplace violations without requiring court proceedings.
The amendments also extend various leave provisions for workers, though specific details were not provided in the government announcement.
“Having effective employment legislation in place is critical for Saskatchewan’s strong economy and secure future,” Reiter said. “This legislation strikes the right balance for both workers and employers.”
