On March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) was signed into law, providing an estimated $2 trillion stimulus package to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the CARES Act has a number of employment-related provisions (as discussed here), a central piece of the legislation expands existing unemployment insurance programs, making far more individuals eligible and providing greater benefits than existing programs. As employers consider workplace actions during this time of uncertainty, understanding the impact of the new unemployment insurance landscape and the options available will inform employers as they make critical decisions suited to their circumstances and workforce.
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Pennsylvania Grants Waivers Allowing Non-‘Life-Sustaining’ Businesses to Resume Operations
On March 19, 2020, Governor Tom Wolf ordered all Pennsylvania businesses that are not considered “life-sustaining” to shut down their physical operations by March 21 at 12:01 a.m., which was later amended to March 23, 2020 at 8 a.m. Governor Wolf’s order will remain in effect until further notice. Although there are several industries that are listed as non-life sustaining, the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), has granted several waivers permitting specific businesses in industries that are not life sustaining to continue operating. For example, although construction companies generally must cease construction, they are permitted to construct health care facilities and conduct emergency repairs.
COVID-19 State and Local Employment Law Developments
As COVID-19 cases have swept across the country, state and local governments have reacted by issuing various orders and guidance affecting employers and their employees. Although it is not possible to discuss all related state and local developments that have occurred, this update provides a brief overview of some of these developments to help you maintain compliance for your organization.
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COVID-19: Considerations for Employee Testing
The COVID-19 pandemic presents unprecedented challenges for any employer seeking to provide a healthy working environment. To help mitigate some of the uncertainty, on March 18, 2020, the EEOC issued updated guidance for employers considering screening and testing protocols for employees and job applicants. These efforts, along with a growing patchwork of state and local laws, are intended to slow the spread of infections.
For the full alert, please visit the Faegre Drinker website.
Families First Coronavirus Response Act FAQ
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act creates obligations for many employers to provide temporary relief to eligible employees affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This FAQ answers commonly asked and anticipated questions regarding the paid leave provisions of the new law and is based on the final text of the legislation, as well as the legislative history of the bill.
For the full alert, please visit the Faegre Drinker website.
Congress Passes Expansive Coronavirus Package, Including Paid Leave
On Wednesday evening, the President signed into law the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, a sweeping legislative package in response to the COVID-19 epidemic. The bill includes paid leave, nutrition assistance, and free testing and other policies intended to help American families in the coming weeks. Read more for the latest takeaways from the act and what it means for employers.
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