One of the most difficult things about being laid off is the loss of medical benefits. Unemployment covers wages, but the cost to continue medical benefits can be thousands of dollars a month. Under the recently passed American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), 100% of premiums for COBRA or state continuation coverage must be paid by the employer beginning April 1, 2021. The benefit will last for six months maximum and has a retroactive back to before the COVID-19 outbreak began. Depending upon the employer location, if it is state continuation vs. COBRA then the retroactive period may be greater. Howev ..read more

The COVID-19 pandemic has created many unique situations for employers. The effects of the pandemic and ensuing government regulations have impacted every household differently. Some employees may struggle with childcare while others may fear exposure. The standard “playbook” for handing common employment issues has been torn up and employers are required to make decisions with very little guidance. Here are some tips for how handle unique employment situations that have arisen during the COVID-19 pandemic. What should I do if an employee has symptoms of COVID-19? If an employee has symptoms o ..read more

Different political views are routinely communicated in news outlets. Our country is extremely polarized. Not only do strangers openly proclaim their differing views, but families, friends, and co-workers often vocalize vastly different political ideologies and opinions. What happens when an employee expresses political views that are not consistent with the employer’s views? In California, an employer may not terminate an employee for political activity that does not affect the employee’s job performance. California Labor Code § 1101 prevents employers from restricting an employee’s ability t ..read more

California has begun distribution of COVID-19 vaccines in accordance with a phased administration plan. The next to be vaccinated will be individuals who are high-risk, unable to work at home, live or work in geographic areas that have been highly impacted or are most likely to spread disease to other workers or to the public. The state has estimated that COVID-19 vaccines will be available to the general public in Spring 2021. Therefore, the time is quickly approaching for employers to make important decisions regarding the administration of the vaccine to employees. Can employers require the ..read more