Dear Neighbor:

As we are faced with an unprecedented pandemic, it is essential that California workers and employers be aware of the benefits available to them. There are a number of statewide programs that are designed to assist those who have had their employment affected by COVID-19.

If your employer has reduced your hours or shut down operations due to COVID-19, the California Employment Development Department encourages you to file an Unemployment Insurance (UI) claim via UI Online. In a recent executive order, Governor Newsom has waived the one-week waiting period for people who are unemployed as a result of COVID-19.

If you are unable to work because you are taking care of an ill or quarantined family member, you can file a Paid Family Leave claim via SDI Online. Benefit amounts are approximately 60-70 percent of wages and can be collected for up to six weeks.

There are also options for sick leave for many employees. For details see Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19): Frequently Asked Questions on laws enforced by the California Labor Commissioner's Office. Even if your employer doesn't offer sick leave, both state (California Family Rights Act) and federal laws (Family and Medical Leave Act) may qualify you for up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year.

If you have specific questions about your available benefits, you can call my office at (310) 375-0691 or email me at Assemblymember.Muratsuchi@assembly.ca.gov.

We are all in this together.

Sincerely,

Al Muratsuchi
Assemblymember, 66th District