My question involves labor and employment law for the state of: California
I am a punctual, reliable employee who has never been disciplined for anything. I have taken two days off to recover from a head cold and sore throat, and our HR Dept. has demanded I get a doctors note even if I return to work on the third day. I will have to pay a $20 dollar co-pay (worth 1.5 hours of work for me!) just to get a note for a head cold.
Our employee handbook for 2007-2008 states:
'From time to time, employees may be required to submit a physician's note following an illness/injury absence. However, employees absent for three or more consecutive business days, due to illness or injury, will be required to submit a physician's note/release before returning to work.'
We do not have an updated 2008-2009 handbook to refer to. My supervisor did not question my sickness, so is it legal for HR to independently demand a doctors note even if I have not been out for three consecutive days?
Is it unreasonable to be out for two days? I have accrued 9 days of sick leave over the time of my employment, and I have used one day a month for appointments and illness. This is the first time I have been out two days in a row. Is it suspicious?
Thank you!

