I was featured on KVUE yesterday on a report about how the current COVID-19 situation is affecting workers struggling to keep their jobs.
Employees who are affected by furloughs or layoffs should contact the Texas Workforce Commission to file an unemployment claim.
Where employees are experiencing symptoms associated with coronavirus, or they have a confirmed case, they should self-quarantine. An eligible employee may be able to receive two weeks of emergency sick leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). If you qualify for benefits and tell your employer you qualify for leave under this new law, covered employers (with fewer than 500 employees) must provide paid leave at a rate that is two-thirds your regular base pay.
Importantly, employers can offset the cost of FFRCA paid leave through tax credits. Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees who attempt to take emergency leave under this law.
Employees who are being required to report to the worksite and are concerned about exposure to COVID-19 should report their concerns to management. If the work environment still feels unsafe, then employees should consult the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (aka OSHA).
