Legal Alert: CARES Act Update

As COVID-19 cases reach an all-time high across the nation, business owners and employees face uncertainty with the expiration of the CARES Act on December 31, 2020. All expanded leave policies and related reimbursement will no longer be effective in 2021.

On October 1, 2020, the House of Representatives passed the HEROES Act as a supplement to the CARES Act. However, the Senate has not reviewed the HEROES Act and its passage through Congress is uncertain.

The CARES Act will likely expire on December 31, 2020, as originally scheduled. Expect to see ongoing discussions for a supplemental plan in early 2021 or until a vaccine is available for nationwide distribution.

In the interim, OSHA, the CDC, and state and local governments are expected to offer continued guidance on safety protocols in the workplace. Employers should continue to follow all safety policies currently in place to ensure the safety of their employees and avoid potential liability. We will keep you updated as changes take effect.