Overview of FFCRA
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) applies to private employers with fewer than 500 employees and government employers with more than one employee. The FFCRA remains in effect until December 31, 2020. Employers in violation of the provisions will be subject to the penalties described in the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act.
If your employer meets these criteria, they must provide paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19. You may be eligible for up to two weeks of paid sick leave at full pay if you are sick with COVID-19, seeking a diagnosis, or quarantining. Additional reasons related to caregiving and school closures qualify you for up to 12 weeks of paid leave at two-thirds pay.
Protections also apply. Employers may not fire or discipline employees for taking qualifying leave, otherwise they face penalties and enforcement. Some small businesses with fewer than 50 employees may be exempt from certain provisions. The leave provisions expire on December 31, 2020, but may be extended.
FFCRA and Employer Obligations
In summary, private employers with less than 500 employees and public employers must provide paid COVID-19 related leave to employees, with specific eligibility criteria, amounts, durations, and job protections applying. Tax credits are available to compensate employers. The FFCRA leave programs helped support workers through the pandemic in 2020.
Eligibility under FFCRA
The FFCRA applies to private employers with fewer than 500 employees and government employers with more than one employee until December 31, 2020. Employers in violation will be subject to penalties.
If your employer has less than 500 employees, they must provide paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave for specified COVID-19 reasons. You may be eligible for up to two weeks of paid sick leave at full pay if you are sick with COVID-19, seeking a diagnosis, or quarantining. Additional reasons related to caregiving and school closures qualify you for up to 12 weeks of paid leave at two-thirds pay.