New York State lawmakers in Albany have signed off on authorized paid leave for bereavement.

Up to 12 weeks paid leave for a death in the family just passed the senate and is slated to begin in 2020. 

If the amendment to the family leave law is signed by Governor Andrew Cuomo, employers would be required to notify employers as soon as the death occurs and need to provide a death certificate for proof.

Bronx Chamber of Commerce Nunzio Del Greco wrote in a statement, "Businesses should be free to establish their own policies regarding time off for bereavement. Requiring or mandating 12 weeks paid time off for bereavement is an excessive financial burden in payroll cost; loss of income and or productivity; and will be especially detrimental to small businesses with limited staff and resources.

The bill states the inability to take time to process grief can affect a person's health and their family.

Currently, the bill allows for paid leave for birth of a child and medical reasons.