COVID-19 Q&A Live: Work Safety, Rent Waivers, Unreachable Unemploymnet Benefits

TL;DR

This special report discusses the various issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, including job losses, housing concerns, and legal rights, providing answers to viewers' questions.

Transcript

welcome and thank you for joining us I'm Brian Ross and this is a special report from the law and crime Network and for our viewers on YouTube live and Facebook live your questions about the law and coded 19 and lots of questions about your job your home your finances your health and your rights and joining me today to talk about all that is Rachel... Read More

Key Insights

• 🧑‍⚕️ The COVID-19 crisis is causing various challenges, extending beyond health concerns and affecting jobs, finances, and mental well-being.
• 🥺 Landlords are making individual decisions about rent waivers, leading to different approaches and potential consequences for both tenants and landlords.
• 🥺 The pandemic has exposed flaws in government agencies' infrastructure and staffing, leading to delays and frustrations in processing claims.
• 👨‍💼 Real estate transactions are still possible, with virtual alternatives and innovative methods being used to conduct business safely.

Questions & Answers

Q: Can a company force employees to use their vacation or discretionary time during the pandemic closure?

Yes, some companies are requiring employees to use their vacation and sick time to keep them on the payroll. However, this leaves employees without available vacation time in the future.

Q: Does the pandemic qualify as a force majeure event that could invalidate contracts and leases?

The concept of force majeure was primarily designed to protect landlords, and many leases still hold tenants responsible for rent, regardless of the pandemic. It varies by state.

Q: How are employers ensuring the safety of workers in essential jobs like Amazon warehouses?

Employers, including Amazon, have a duty to provide a safe work environment. They are taking measures like increased sanitation, providing protective equipment, and implementing social distancing guidelines.

Q: Can individuals collect workers' compensation if they contract COVID-19 at work?

Workers' compensation can be collected if the person can prove a direct connection between their work and contracting the virus. Healthcare workers and warehouse employees have stronger claims, while others may find it challenging.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The extended lockdown, particularly in major cities like New York, is causing ripple effects on people's jobs, finances, and mental health.

• Domestic violence cases are increasing during the lockdown period, highlighting another consequence of the pandemic.

• Landlords are making decisions about rent waivers, with some offering relief while others maintain strict payment requirements.