Ward County employees will continue to receive COVID-19 leave under an updated policy approved by the county commission Tuesday.

The county had adopted a policy in accordance with federal law last year to provide up to 80 days of leave for employees faced with quarantine or who had positive tests for COVID-19. The commission optionally extended the program to March 31 of this year, allowing employees who did not use their full leave in 2020 to carry over leave into 2021.

The commission took additional, optional action Tuesday to adopt a new policy, effective April 1, that provides 80 hours of leave through Sept. 30 for all employees, including those who already have used previous hours. Under the new policy, the county can apply for a federal payroll tax credit for wages paid during employees’ leaves.

The leave is available for quarantine or isolation, while awaiting results of a COVID-19 test or diagnosis, to obtain the COVID-19 vaccine or to recover from vaccine side effects.

Commissioner John Pietsch cast the only vote against the policy, saying he is concerned about misuse.

“With all the relief packages, it’s getting harder and harder to find people to work. They can actually make more money staying at home,” he said.

Commissioner Shelly Weppler supported the new policy based on the county’s previous experience with the program.

“I think it’s been managed appropriately,” she said.

Commission Chairman John Fjeldahl suggested the county look into offering antibody testing for employees, who could use the results in deciding whether to get the vaccine.