Sparrow Gazette


Sparrow
Gazette

July 2023

Sparrow’s high-tech, high-touch approach to leave management means that we are constantly improving both our software and customer experience. Here are some exciting developments.

Product Updates

You may have heard, late last month the EDD went through a major system overhaul as part of their EDDNext multiyear roadmap. While there were some initial EDD launch challenges, not uncommon for major state program updates, the EDD systems stabilized within a few days. Sparrow closely monitored the system updates and communicated with all California employees on leave. The close partnership with your employees and the EDD enabled a smooth transition to their new system.

Compliance Updates

Sparrow’s in-house Legal and Compliance team regularly reviews and summarizes updates to compliance. We’ve summarized the key highlights on California’s removal of the wage cap for SDI taxes and Maine’s new paid family and medical and leave program.

What We’re Watching

Washington Passes Paid Family and Medical Leave Act to Claim Records

Governor Jay Inslee signed Senate Bill 5586, effective January 1, 2024. This gives employers, the employer’s third-party administrator, or an employee the ability to request access to Washington Paid Family and Medical Leave Act claim records related to employee claims.


This development is intended to assist employers in administering their own paid leave or supplemental benefit programs concurrently with the state benefit.  Information that can be accessed can include:


  • Type of leave being taken; 

  • Requested duration of leave including the approved dates of leave;

  • Remaining hours of leave available in the employee's entitlement; 

  • Weekly benefit amount; and 

  • Actual benefits paid and hours claimed.


Any information provided pursuant to this law “may only be used for the purpose of administering internal employer leave or benefit practices under established employer policies.”


More guidance and rulemaking from Washington’s Employment Security Department (ESD) is expected before the January 1, 2024 effective date.

Leave Posters

Some federal, state, and local regulations require employers to post information related to leave available to employees under applicable law. To help employers navigate this compliance landscape, Sparrow's in-house Legal and Compliance team share a summary of leave-related posters mandated within the U.S.

Customer Spotlight

In addition to helping businesses confront digital risks, cyber insurance provider At-Bay is committed to ensuring their team is set up for success. When big life events happen, they want their people to know they’ll be supported the entire way — which is why they partner with Sparrow for full-service employee leave management. If you’d like to be featured, let your Leave Specialist know!

Sparrow Referral

Do you enjoy partnering with Sparrow? Do you know someone who is struggling to keep up with the ever-changing rules and regulations of leave management? If so, please submit a referral to help them save time and money.