Workplace and Benefit Plan Regulations: Responding to the Pandemic

Description

The continued outbreak of COVID-19 in the U.S. has created fears and uncertainties for employers. Employment counsel must prepare to guide clients in navigating myriad legal considerations, including potential areas of liability under federal and state employment laws, and advise them on effective tactics to ensure legal compliance and mitigate risk.

Now that many of the CARES Act provisions have expired, employers must consider the federal or state statutes that address health and safety issues with their employees, as well as their clients. New questions arise daily. How can employers comply with current recommendations regarding travel restrictions, shelter in place orders, mask mandates, and social distancing requirements from government and health authorities to maintain a safe working environment while trying to conduct "business as usual"?

Compensation for exempt and non-exempt employees under FLSA and related state laws is a significant concern for employers during and after a crisis. Are exempt employees entitled to pay if a workplace shuts down because of a crisis? Must non-exempt employees be compensated for overtime pay if their workload increases due to a crisis?

Employers must continue to prepare for FMLA requests by immune-compromised employees or those who develop a contagious virus or whose spouse, parent, or child suffer from medical issues due to illness.

Workplace safety is always a high priority. What are OSHA's requirements for employers to protect workers from workplace hazards? Employment counsel must also guide their clients in understanding and meeting their obligations.

Listen as our authoritative panel of employment law attorneys discusses legal considerations and best practices for employers throughout the COVID-19 outbreak and in anticipation of a potential future crisis.