Welcome to #WorkforceWednesday. This weekly newsletter provides you with a cost-free, convenient way to quickly browse the most significant news impacting your workforce.
Watch the week’s top workforce management and employment law news and read further below:
CDC Issues Guidance for Infrastructure Workers
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued guidance on best safety practices for critical infrastructure workers with potential exposure to COVID-19. Read the CDC’s guidance here: cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/critical-workers/implementing-safety-practices.html
OSHA Releases New Reporting Guidance
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has also issued interim guidance on how employers should report cases of COVID-19. The guidance does not require reporting from industries or employers that are not otherwise obligated to report. Learn more: workforcebulletin.com/2020/04/15/department-of-labor-releases-osha-enforcement-guidance-for-recording-cases-of-covid-19/
EEOC Update
On April 9, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission released updated technical assistance questions and answers related to COVID-19. Due to the pandemic, the agency has also largely paused the issuance of right-to-sue notices for employees who file discrimination claims. Learn more: workforcebulletin.com/2020/04/15/eeoc-updates-guidance-on-covid-19-and-compliance-with-antidiscrimination-laws/
Other Highlights
Gig-Economy Blueprint
Among its many provisions, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, or “CARES Act,” provides up to 39 weeks of unemployment insurance benefits to workers not otherwise eligible for unemployment compensation. This includes independent contractors and self-employed individuals who are unable to work because of COVID-19. Ultimately, the CARES Act could provide insight into how U.S. labor and employment law, as applied to the gig economy, might evolve. Read more (subscription required): ebglaw.com/news/cares-act-may-propel-gig-economy-employment-law-shift/
Teleworking Checklist
Here’s a checklist for navigating the various legal and practical issues facing employers with respect to telecommuting: ebglaw.com/content/uploads/2020/04/LPA-Journal-8-Coronavirus-Ruzal-Baratt.pdf
In Case You Missed It
Our latest webinar, “COVID-19’s Impact on the Hospitality Industry,” has been recorded. Presenters included individuals from Deloitte Legal and Epstein Becker Green. View the webinar: ebglaw.com/events/covid-19s-impact-on-the-hospitality-industry-presented-by-deloitte-legal-and-epstein-becker-green/
Stay Up to Date
Our Coronavirus Resource Center is updated daily and always available at ebglaw.com/coronavirus.
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These materials have been provided for informational purposes only and are not intended and should not be construed to constitute legal advice. The “Tip of the Week” offers one perspective on possible human resource ideas or business practices. It presents the perspective of an individual not affiliated with Epstein Becker Green and should not be considered legal advice. The content of these materials is copyrighted to Epstein Becker & Green, P.C. EMPLOYMENT LAW THIS WEEK® is a registered trademark of Epstein Becker & Green, P.C. ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.
