Dept. of Labor Publishes Guidance on Paid Sick Leave, Expanded Family and Medical Leave

The U.S. Department of Labor has published guidance for employers and employees about how to take advantage of federal protections and relief as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) takes effect on April 1, 2020. The legislation will give all American businesses with fewer than 500 employees funds to provide employees with paid leave, either for the employee’s own health or to care for family members.

“The guidance – provided in a Fact Sheet for Employees, a Fact Sheet for Employers and a Questions and Answers document – addresses critical questions, such as how an employer must count the number of their employees to determine coverage; how small businesses can obtain an exemption; how to count hours for part-time employees; and how to calculate the wages employees are entitled to under this law,” according to a department news release.

The guidance is just the first round of information and compliance assistance, the release says. A workplace poster required for most employers will be published along with additional fact sheets and more Q&As.

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