Are you struggling to stay on top of the latest labor and employment legislation surrounding COVID-19?  Questions about unemployment, health, or retirement benefits available under the Families First Coronavirus Relief Act (“FFCRA”) and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act? Given the rapidly changing nature of our times, our Labor and Employment practice group has been recording podcasts to help businesses and individuals understand some of the latest developments surrounding COVID-19. The podcasts inform clients about important legal developments that affect their business and enable employers to stay current with the constantly evolving legal issues related to COVID-19.

In the podcasts below I have partnered with a number of our labor and employment attorneys to discuss features in both the FFCRA and the CARES Act. The podcasts provide valuable insight keeping you up to date with the latest changes in the law.

The CARES Act May Increase Unemployment Benefits – April 29, 2020

Phyllis Karasov and Alex Beeby

The CARES Act contains a number of provisions that make it easier to receive unemployment insurance benefits and increases the amount of unemployment benefits laid off and underemployed employees can receive. The Act also allows self-employed individuals, independent contractors and employees who are not otherwise eligible, to receive unemployment benefits. Alex and I discuss these changes and provide insight into the support the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development is giving these individuals.

Employee Benefit Features in the CARES Act – April 27, 2020

Phyllis Karasov and Mary Komornicka

The CARES Act allows employers to make changes in its Section 401(K) and 403(b) plans to assist employees who are experiencing financial stress due to the current pandemic. The Act also provides for modifications to health insurance benefits and a waiver of the minimum distribution rules for retirement plans, through December 31, 2020.  In this podcast, Mary and I provide some clarification around these features.

Questions Employers are facing Under the Families First Coronavirus Relief Act – April 20, 2020

Phyllis Karasov and Dan Ballintine

Under the Families First Coronavirus Relief Act (“FFCRA”), employers with fewer than 500 employees must provide paid leave to employees who cannot work due to pandemic-related issues such as sickness and care of children whose schools have closed.  In our first podcast, Dan and I provide guidance under the new law.

About the Larkin Hoffman Podcast Briefings

The Larkin Hoffman Podcast Briefings series was developed to discuss issues affected by the COVID-19 crisis. Our attorneys will address corporate, employment, real estate, construction, franchise, bankruptcy, insurance, litigation, and other matters in this series. Over the next few weeks, there will be several podcasts on developing matters.

Larkin Hoffman is available to help. Please reach out for additional guidance.