Proposed COVID-19 Bill Has Major Implications for Employers
On March 16, 2020, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a revised version of the H.R. 6201, Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201 or the Bill). While the U.S. Senate has not weighed in, employers should be aware of the provisions within the Bill that would require them to change their policies with regards to coverage under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and expanding the requirements to provide paid sick leave.
The House originally passed H.R. 6201 on March 14, 2020, but then changed a number of the provisions, citing the need to make “technical corrections.” The revised Bill was then voted on and passed on Monday, March 16, 2020. The Bill now heads for the Senate.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR INDUSTRY
As written, the Bill requires employers with under 500 employees expand their coverage of paid leave to employees who are affected by COVID-19 either under FMLA or in the form of sick leave. These requirements will be in place until December 31, 2020. The following are major highlights of the Bill, but there are additional requirements that may affect certain businesses and the provisions may change as the Bill makes its way through the Senate. Nonetheless, all employers are advised to consult with counsel before the law goes into effect.
