We met with the Mayor’s Office yesterday evening to further discuss the suggestions we made to them earlier this week. As a result, they have rolled out several temporary policies today. These policies should ease the burden on those directly affected by COVID-19, and on those doing their best to slow the virus’ spread.
Below is a brief outline of what’s currently in place.
For employees who are diagnosed with COVID-19 or directed by their medical provider to isolate themselves because they’ve exhibited symptoms, there will be paid leave (in addition to any time you currently have on the books)
For employees who must be absent due to a quarantine order from their medical provider (even though they may not presently have any symptoms), there will also be paid leave (in addition to any time you currently have on the books)
In both of these situations, the paid leave is in addition to any paid time off the employee has or will have on the books.
Department Heads will be allowed to advance vacation/sick days to employees who are staying at home because of some other, non-COVID-19 illness or because of their child’s school closure. If that employee has already used up their 2020 vacation time and any comp time they may have, this paid leave can come out of an employee’s 2021 bank. If you do not want to use your vacation time, just apply for FMLA to make sure the absences are excused.
The City has temporarily stop using biometric screening (hand swipes). Instead, they’ll require employees to swipe their ID cards and then “waive” their hand (your id or similiar item works also) over the prongs. This will register the employee as present and at work.
This is a continuously evolving situation, and we will continue to do our best to stay on top of it. These are positive steps for our members and should significantly aid in slowing the spread of the virus and keeping our members and their families as healthy as possible.
As always, we encourage our members to contact us with any questions or issues you may have.