Businesses struggling with the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis received good news late last night when the Senate passed an unprecedented piece of legislation aimed at providing a massive stimulus to workplaces and employees alike. The centerpiece of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act would allow small- and medium-sized businesses to receive federal loans – in some cases forgivable – to cover payroll and other expenses. It also expands unemployment benefits for workers impacted by the outbreak, while extending unemployment eligibility to many who are otherwise not regularly entitled to receive such benefits. While the bill is not yet law, the House is expected to approve the CARES Act by Friday
and President Trump should sign it into law shortly thereafter. What do employers need to know about this significant development?
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