Several important developments have recently occurred in Washington state. We're addressing the following topics in this post - find the full articles below. New law creates more pandemic worker protections. On May 11, 2021, Governor Jay Inslee signed ESSB 5115, the Health Emergency Labor Standards Act (HELSA), creating labor standards that automatically take…
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The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently posted FAQs stating that if an employee has an adverse reaction to a COVID-19 (coronavirus) vaccine that was mandated by their employer, the reaction is recordable if it’s a new case and meets the usual criteria for recordable injuries and illnesses. OSHA says…
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On April 30, 2021, the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Oregon OSHA) issued a “permanent” rule on COVID-19 Workplace Requirements for Employer-Provided Labor Housing (OAR 437-004-1115). This is in addition to Oregon OSHA’s other new “permanent” rule for workplaces (as opposed to worker housing), Addressing COVID-19 Workplace Risks (OAR 437-001-0744), reported separately in…
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OREGON: Oregon OSHA adopts permanent COVID-19 workplace rule On May 4, 2021, the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Oregon OSHA) released its long-awaited permanent rule, Addressing COVID-19 Workplace Risks (OAR 437-001-0744). The new rule replaces and is substantially consistent with the now expired temporary rule which we previously reported…
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In updated Statewide Isolation and Quarantine Guidance issued April 24, 2021, the Oregon Health Authority is no longer allowing for a shortened quarantine period for people who have had a close contact with a confirmed positive COVID-19 (coronavirus) case, even if the individual tests negative during their quarantine period. Individuals…
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The California Labor Commissioner’s office has updated its FAQs regarding 2021 COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave (SPSL) to clarify whether an employee’s leave request qualifies for SPSL. Specifically, the update offers clarification around leave for childcare purposes; whether a covered employee qualifies for leave because someone they live with is exposed,…
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On April 5, 2021, Arizona Governor Doug Ducey signed into law SB 1377, which protects covered individuals and businesses from liability for COVID-19 related injuries to customers, students, tenants, volunteers, guests, neighbors, or members of the public, if they acted in “good faith” to protect those people from the pandemic. SB 1377 aligns with the…
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Question: Several employees have informed us that they are fully vaccinated for COVID-19. Do they still have to wear masks and stay 6 feet apart at work? Answer: Yes, if any orders or regulations issued by local, state, or federal authorities still impose workplace restrictions. Vaccination greatly reduces the likelihood that…
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Question: One of our employees is experiencing side effects after getting a COVID-19 vaccination. We have fewer than 500 employees and we’re pursuing the voluntary tax credits under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). Is this employee eligible for paid leave under FFCRA for the time she can’t work? Answer: Yes, as of…
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Question: We’re offering workers a bonus if they voluntarily get a COVID-19 vaccination, but some workers say they don’t want to get it because of religious beliefs or disabilities. If we don’t pay those workers the bonus, are we liable for discrimination? Answer: Yes, but by adjusting your incentive plan, you can encourage…
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