Overview: 

On March 18, 2020, the Families First Coronavirus Response Acts was signed into law. This was the second major piece of legislation to address the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impact.  The legislation provides paid leave, establishes free testing, protects public health workers, and provides important benefits to children and families. These provisions are effective April 1, 2020 and applies to leave taken between April 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020.

Q: If I am on furlough, am I eligible to claim sick leave?

A:  Under this portion of the law, you are not eligible to claim sick leave if you are furloughed.

Q: Who is eligible to receive the sick leave benefits?

A:  Under the FFCRA, you are eligible to take leave and receive sick leave benefits if you are unable to work (including work remotely) because you:

  1. Are subject to a Federal, State, or local quarantine or isolation order related to COVOD-19
  2. Have been advised by a health care provider to self-quarantine related to COVID-19
  3. Are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and are seeking a medical diagnosis
  4. Are caring for an individual who is subject to a Federal, State, or local quarantine or isolation order related to COVID-19 or an individual who has been advised by a health care provider to self-quarantine due to concerns related to COVID-19
  5. Are caring for your child whose school or place of care is closed, or child care provider is unavailable, due to COVID-19 related reasons
  6. Are experiencing any other substantially similar condition specified by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Q: If I am eligible for these sick leave benefits, how long will I receive benefits?

A:  As a full-time employee, you can receive up to 80 hours (10 days) of paid sick leave. If you work part-time, you will receive pay based on the number of hours worked during an average two-week period.

 Q: How do I get more information on whether I qualify?

A:  You can email HR@usosm.com for more information on your eligibility.