Final answer:
The initial probationary period's duration and the inclusion of holiday and sick leave hours are determined by individual employer policies and cannot be provided without further context. Probationary periods allow employers flexibility in assessing new hires, sometimes with lower pay during this period. Additionally, US labor laws provide protections for unpaid leave for family reasons.
Step-by-step explanation:
The initial probationary period for new employees is a common practice in the labor market aimed at reducing the risk of hiring underperforming employees, or "lemons." During this time, employers have the ability to dismiss an employee more easily. The specific question about the number of hours that constitute the probationary period and the inclusion of holiday leave and sick leave cannot be answered without additional context or policy details provided by the employer. In general, though, the probationary period could include all hours worked, any holiday leave, and typically a set maximum number of sick leave hours.
It is important to note that in addition to probationary periods, employees in the United States are also protected under various labor laws which allow them to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for family reasons, such as a birth or family illness, without the risk of losing their job.