Expanded unemployment benefits guidance, quick safety tips, positioning the economy for a quick rebound, and more

Expanded Unemployment Benefits Guidance

The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the number of Americans applying for unemployment insurance. In response, the U.S. Department of Labor has issued guidance to help states implement expanded unemployment benefits under the CARES Act.

• Guidance on implementing the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program, which makes benefits available for self-employed workers, independent contractors, gig workers, and others who do not regularly qualify for unemployment assistance.
• Guidance on Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation, under which states will administer an additional $600 weekly payment to eligible individuals.

Positioning the Economy for a Quick Rebound

In an op-ed with SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza, U.S. Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia discusses how the Administration is working to position the economy for a quick rebound after containing coronavirus by helping maintain the relationship between employers and workers.

Quick Safety Tips Videos

OSHA released its third quick safety tips video on using the right tools to clean workplaces during the COVID-19 pandemic. All three videos are available in English and Spanish.

Important Updates from the Labor Department

On Thursday, Secretary Scalia joined President Trump and Vice President Pence at the White House to discuss the Department of Labor’s efforts to help Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic.

COVID-19 Updates and Resources

• Respirator Protection Guidance: OSHA has issued interim guidance on more respirator options during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Release: OSHA has expanded guidance on respirator fit-testing to all industries during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Safety Poster: A new poster highlights 10 infection prevention measures every employer can take to reduce workplace exposure to coronavirus. It is available in English and Spanish.
• Whistleblower Rights: OSHA reminded employers that it is illegal to retaliate against workers for reporting unsafe and unhealthful working conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Retail Alert: An OSHA alert lists safety tips to help protect retail workers from exposure to COVID-19. It is available in English and Spanish.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Youth Apprenticeship Grants

More than $42 million is available in grants to help connect youths with apprenticeships in new and non-traditional occupations.

Benefit Plans Judgment

A federal court has ordered a Maryland company to restore $28,650,604 to employer benefit plans following a Department investigation.

Miners Remembered

On April 5, MSHA recognized the 29 miners who died in the Upper Big Branch mine disaster in 2010 by placing a wreath at the memorial.

NOLA Construction Collapse

OSHA has cited an engineering firm, general contractor, steel erector and eight subcontractors for safety and health violations after investigating a partial building collapse at a New Orleans construction site.

COMPLIANCE ASSISTANCE HIGHLIGHT

Timesheet App

Need help tracking work hours? We’ve got an app for that. The DOL-Timesheet App helps track regular work hours, break time, and overtime hours so employees and employers can keep accurate records.