In November 1982, DeKalb County, Georgia adopted a Sick Leave Incentive Program. The DeKalb County Merit System and Personnel Administration Director recommended the program to the Chairman and Board of Commissioners to reduce absenteeism among county employees and to address concerns that the sick leave program in use at that time was being abused by county employees. The Chairman and Board of Commissioners of DeKalb County unanimously approved the new program which has been operating for six years without modification. This paper evaluates that program from a variety of perspectives with an emphasis on the policy aspect, effectiveness or track record, and implementation strategies.
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