Q: We have a valued and cherished employee who has suddenly developed a serious medical condition. We are a small company with 17 employees and we would like to extend time off with pay to her, but it’s not our standard policy to do so. Can we do this for her?
A: As a business owner, you can certainly do as you wish, and she would benefit from the consideration you are giving her. One word of caution: In granting her this benefit, you are setting a precedent. Should other employees face a similar situation, would you treat them similarly? Treating one “special” employee uniquely does leave you open to potential claims of preferential treatment and discrimination going forward. Just be sure to consider the precedent you are setting when making accommodations for your “special” employees.
Independent Insurance Agents of Virginia