Q&A provides some answers for Families First Coronavirus Response Act
Last week we sent two e-mails regarding the Families First Coronavirus Response Act to explain the “Paid Sick Leave and Expanded Family and Medical Leave” and the “Questions and Answers” provided by the U.S. Department of Labor. We promised to continue to monitor the Act and keep you informed of any significant changes or guidance. 
Throughout the week we have received numerous questions regarding the Act such as:
“Does shelter-in-place qualify?” 
“Can our employees file for unemployment?”
“What if I am considered an essential business?” 

The U.S. Department of Labor recently published additional guidance on the Act by adding more questions and answers--please click here to visit . The questions raised are from both the employee’s and the employer’s perspective, and cover topics such as:
  • documentation required
  • teleworking
  • intermittent sick leave
  • employer closed worksites
  • unemployment eligibility
  • multi-employer collective bargaining agreements 
  • business’ going concern
The list does not seem to specifically mention “shelter-in-place” as compared to quarantine nor does it specifically mention “essential business.” The guidance is subject to interpretation. We at Mathieson, Moyski, Austin & Co. have had numerous discussions with colleagues around the nation and at local law firms. All have agreed more guidance still needs to be published. 

Since the U.S. Department of Labor will be administering the Act, we encourage you to review the Department’s website along with the “Questions and Answers" list. Seeking legal advice from your employment attorney is also highly encouraged.
If you have questions about how this may affect you, please call us at (630) 653-1616 or reach out to us via email.
Ron Austin, CPA
Brian Eisenmenger, CPA
Brian Hagene, CPA
Brett Mathieson, CPA
John Straus, CPA
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