Pandemic's Impact on Gig Work, DOJ Enforcement Priorities, Quick Wage-Hour Tip

It’s #WorkforceWednesday. We hope you had a safe and healthy July 4th weekend. Here’s some news you may have missed:

Pandemic’s Impact on Gig Work

In the most recent example of how the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting the gig economy, Seattle City Council passed two ordinances. The first ordinance requires food delivery network companies to pay delivery drivers at least $2.50 in premium pay for each completed delivery within Seattle. The second ordinance goes into effect July 13 and requires covered transportation network and food delivery network companies to temporarily provide paid sick and safe time benefits to ride-share and food delivery drivers, notwithstanding the drivers’ independent contractor status. Read more.

DOJ’s Pandemic-Related Enforcement Priorities

Recent U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) enforcement actions teach important lessons for any business that has accepted some of the $2.7 trillion in economic relief under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. Specific to employers, federal prosecutors have brought numerous cases charging fraud in connection with applications for, and misuse of, Paycheck Protection Program loans. Learn more about the DOJ’s actions and priorities.

Wage-Hour Tip: Determining Part-Time Employees for Benefits Eligibility

The COVID-19 pandemic and the passage of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act have employers reevaluating what benefits need to be extended to part-time employees. Here’s a quick wage-hour tip on helping you determine benefits eligibility for part-time employees.

Other Highlights

Local Updates

Here’s a recent compilation of changes affecting employers at the state and local level:

Stay Up to Date

Our Coronavirus Resource Center is updated daily and has the return-to-work resources you need.

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For employers navigating risk, workforce, and the bottom line. Employment Law This Week® delivers the employment and labor developments that matter—without the noise. Part of the Epstein Becker Green Insights Network.

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