On March 16, 2020, Governor Walz signed an executive order to change Minnesota’s unemployment program in an effort to help people struggling with business closures and downsizing as a result of COVID-19. Walz’s Order expands employees’ right to unemployment benefits if they lose their jobs because they have contracted COVID-19 or are kept away from work for safety reasons, such as self-quarantine.
Specifically, Walz’s Order makes the following changes:
- The waiting period for benefits is waived;
- You may not have to look for employment to receive benefits;
- If you are sick, quarantined, or home because of an outbreak at your work, you qualify for unemployment; and
- If you stay home due to lack of child care, you qualify for unemployment.
If you become unemployed, placed on a leave of absence, or have had your work hours greatly reduced, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits. The Governor of Minnesota has recently issued an Order expanding employees’ right to unemployment benefits if they lose their jobs because they have contracted COVID-19 or are kept away from work for safety reasons, such as self-quarantine. You can visit https://www.uimn.org/applicants/needtoknow/news-updates/covid-19.jsp for more information and to apply for benefits.
If you have believe your employer has denied you these rights or otherwise taken wrongful actions towards you related to COVID-19, please contact us at intake@nka.com or by phone at 877.448.0492. We remain dedicated to protecting and advancing the rights of employees and consumers.
This article is meant to be informative, and is not legal advice. Please note that state, federal, and local laws and regulations will continue to evolve as this pandemic continues. If you have questions, Nichols Kaster strongly suggests you consult an attorney.