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Education

JD, University of California, Los Angeles School of Law

BA, Pomona College

Labor Union v. County Department (2021) – Alex Volberding obtained a victory for a County’s Department of Child Support Services in a case in which a Commission adopted a hearing officer’s proposed decision and dismissed an unfair practice charge in its entirety. The charge involved a union claiming that the Department had engaged in unlawful unilateral action when it required the Supervising Child Support Services Officers to interface with the County Employee Retirement Association regarding disability retirement claims submitted by their subordinates. The labor union claimed this requirement was a new assignment and that the Department had an obligation to meet and confer before imposing the requirement.  Alex, on behalf of the Department, argued that the duties were encompassed within the supervisor’s existing duties; and reasonably related to existing duties, and thus not subject to bargaining.  In this case, Alex handled the hearing and wrote the closing brief.

Project Labor Agreement (PLA) Advice (2022) – Provided strategic advice and legal counsel to a special district’s governing board, staff and chief negotiator during the negotiations for a PLA that will cover approximately $500 million dollars in construction work.

Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority – created PLA valued at over $2 million.

City of San Jose – provided advice, counsel and negotiation services to create a city-wide PLA covering all new construction work over $3 million.

City of Martinez – drafted and negotiated the terms and conditions for a PLA valued at over $1 million.

San Diego Port District – ongoing advice and counsel regarding PLA, Labor Peace Agreements and workforce policies relating to the development and operations of hotels located on District property.

City of Fresno provided advice, counsel and negotiation services regarding the creation of a $66.5 million Transformative Climate Communities PLA.

Union v. County (2023) – A union which represents more than 8,000 county employees, including in safety and health departments called off called off their strike authorization vote. Prior to the termination of the strike authorization vote, the LCW team prepared fifteen (15) county departments that employ employees who perform services necessary to public safety or health for the threatened strike. LCW worked with departmental leadership to identify  essential employees in those departments who would need to continue to work during the strike and were prepared to negotiate line passes with the union that would allow the essential employees to work during the strike.

Employee v. County (2024)Convinced an arbitrator to uphold the termination of a long-term employee for violating county policies concerning vehicle use and timesheet fraud, and for untruthfulness during the administrative investigation.

Department of Labor Publishes AI Principles for Developers and Employers
07/16/2024
California Public Agency Labor & Employment Blog

Late last year, President Biden issued Executive Order No. 14110 laying out his Administration’s policy directions to federal agencies concerning the use of Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) by individuals and organizations under their jurisdiction.
In response to the Executive Order, the Department...

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California Firms Must Work Fast to Comply on Violence Prevention
05/17/2024
Bloomberg Law

Recently published in Bloomberg Law, LCW Partner Alexander Volberding and Senior Counsel Brett Overby explore California’s new workplace violence prevention law, which all employers must comply with by July 1. Volberding and Overby detail the requirements for creating a workplace violence...

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Calif. Employers On Tight Deadline to Comply With New Workplace Violence Prevention Law
05/15/2024
The Recorder

Recently featured in The Recorder, LCW Partner Alexander Volberding and Senior Counsel Brett Overby speak on California’s groundbreaking workplace violence prevention law. Their analysis highlights the state’s leadership in safeguarding workers and the law’s potential impact on...

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EEOC Issues Guidance on Federal Prohibitions on Harassment in the Workplace
05/01/2024
LCW Special Bulletin

On April 29, 2024, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) finalized its long-awaited Enforcement Guidance on Harassment in the Workplace. The new guidance consolidates and supersedes several earlier versions of federal guidance on this subject and serves as a single unified...

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The EEOC Issues Final Regulations and Interpretive Guidance regarding the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act
04/16/2024
LCW Special Bulletin

On April 15, 2024, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) issued  final regulations regarding the federal Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (“PWFA”). The EEOC’s new regulations and accompanying Appendix A (“Interpretive Guidance”) provide guidance on how the EEOC interprets and will...

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Newly Issued DOSH FAQs Confirm All Employees Must be Trained on New Workplace Violence Prevention Obligations by July 1, 2024
04/03/2024
LCW Special Bulletin

On March 27, 2024, the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (“DOSH”) published Frequently Asked Questions about Workplace Violence Prevention in General Industry (Non-Health Care Settings) (“FAQs”), which provide responses to a number of questions related to the Workplace Violence Prevention...

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CDPH Redefines “Infectious Period” Definition, Changing Workplace COVID-19 Prevention Requirements
01/16/2024
LCW Special Bulletin

On January 9, 2024, the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) revised its “infectious period” definition for isolation and exclusion purposes.
The updated definitions will affect employer obligations under the Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Prevention Non-Emergency Regulations, which remain in effect...

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Changes to Paid Sick Leave Obligations Are Coming: Be Sure to Have the Right Policies in Place Before the Year Ends.
10/24/2023
California Public Agency Labor & Employment Blog

On October 4, 2023, Governor Newsom signed Senate Bill (“SB”) 616 into law.
SB 616 amends the Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act of 2014 (Labor Code sections 245-249) to increase the minimum number of paid sick days to which employees, including public employees, are entitled as well as the...

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Prepare for Strikes—and Know When They May Be Unlawful
10/18/2023
SHRM

LCW Partner Alexander Volberding recently contributed to SHRM on the topic of strikes, noting that “California’s public employees are subject to different governing collective bargaining statutes.” (Smith 2023).
To read the full article, please click the following link:...

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Spectrum News 1 Segment – Strikes
10/18/2023
Spectrum News 1

LCW Partner Alex Volberding appeared as a featured guest expert on Spectrum News 1 where he speaks on labor strikes in the public sector and the effects of these strikes on Los Angeles residents.
To watch this segment, please click the following link:  Spectrum News 1 – 10.16.23.mp4 (Alex...

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KNX-AM Segment – Strikes
08/25/2023
KNX-AM News Radio

Recently appearing on KNX-AM, LCW attorney Alex Volberding speaks on labor strikes in the public sector and what public agencies need to know in order to be prepared.
To see the full video interview, please click here.

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Thousands of Los Angeles City Workers Walk Off Job for 24 Hours Alleging Unfair Labor Practices
08/25/2023
Spectrum News 1

Recently appearing on Spectrum News 1, LCW attorney Alex Volberding speaks on labor strikes in the public sector and what public agencies need to know in order to be prepared.
To see the full video interview, please click here.

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City Workers Go On Strike For Increased Pay, Benefits
08/25/2023
Our Weekly

Recently quoted in Our Weekly, LCW attorney Alex Volberding speaks on labor strikes in the public sector and what public agencies need to know in order to be prepared.
To read the full article, please click here

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What Public Sector Agencies Need to Know to Prepare for Labor Strikes
08/10/2023
PSHRA Public Eye Podcast

LCW attorney Alex Volberding appeared as a featured guest on PSHRA’s Public Eye Podcast! In this piece, Alex speaks on labor strikes in the public sector and what public agencies need to know in order to be prepared.
To listen to this podcast, please follow the below link:
PSHRA’s Public Eye...

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California Department of Public Health Revises the Definition of a COVID-19 Outbreak
07/17/2023
LCW Special Bulletin

On June 20, 2023, the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) revised the definition of the term “COVID-19 Outbreak,” reducing the time period during which the COVID-19 cases must occur in order to trigger an outbreak.
Previously, the CDPH defined “COVID-19 Outbreak” to mean at least three...

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How Public Employers Should Respond to Notice of a Workplace Health and Safety Complaint
05/09/2023
California Public Agency Labor & Employment Blog

After three years of COVID-19, many employers are familiar with the occupational safety and health regulations that relate to that specific workplace hazard and the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (“Division” or “DOSH”) which enforces those regulations. (Note: The Division is often...

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What Local Governments Need to Know about the Upcoming End to California’s COVID-19-Related State of Emergency
02/08/2023
LCW Special Bulletin

On October 17, 2022, Governor Newsom announced that he intended to end the State’s COVID-19-related State of Emergency, effective February 28, 2023. This bulletin addresses the forthcoming legal changes and how local governments should prepare for the end of the State of Emergency.
A future...

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California’s New Permanent Standards for COVID-19-Related Workplace Health and Safety Are Now in Effect
02/06/2023
LCW Special Bulletin

On February 3, 2023, the permanent General Industry Safety Orders (“Permanent Standards”) concerning COVID-19-related workplace health and safety requirements took effect.
The Permanent Standards, which replace the Emergency Temporary Standards (“ETS”), will remain in effect for two (2) years,...

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California’s Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board Promulgates New Permanent Standards for COVID-19
12/20/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

On December 15, 2022, the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (“OSHSB”) promulgated new and permanent General Industry Safety Orders (“Permanent Standards”) addressing workplace health and safety issues related to COVID-19 (8 C.C.R. §§ 3205-3205.3). These Permanent Standards...

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Updated Definition of “Close Contact” and Requirements in the Event of a Workplace Exposure
10/31/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

In the last month, the State has updated guidance and requirements on two important COVID-19-related subjects: (1) who qualifies as a “close contact” after a workplace exposure; and (2) what notice employers must provide in the event of a workplace exposure. This bulletin reviews these changes in...

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Managing Practical and Legal Concerns Related to MPX in the Workplace
10/25/2022
California Public Agency Labor & Employment Blog

Less than two and a half years after proclaiming a state of emergency related to COVID-19, Governor Newsom has proclaimed a state of emergency in response to the ongoing monkeypox (“MPX”) outbreak. While the number of MPX cases in California is relatively small compared to the number of COVID-19...

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Governor Newsom Signs Into Law Assembly Bill 152, Extending COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Through December 31, 2022
10/03/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

On September 30, 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill (“AB”) 152 into law.
The bill amends the Labor Codes, making several important changes to how COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave (“SPSL”) is administered.
The changes to the law will take effect immediately.
The purpose of this...

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California’s Occupational Safety And Health Standards Board Is Considering New Regulations Addressing COVID-19
09/27/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

On September 15, 2022, the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (“OSHSB”) held its first public meeting to consider a new workplace health and safety regulation related to COVID-19. This regulation would be in effect for two years and replace the COVID-19 Emergency Temporary...

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CDPH Rescinds Order Requiring that Workers in High-Risk Settings Verify their Vaccine Status or Submit to Weekly Testing
09/23/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

Effective September 17, 2022, the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) rescinded a July 26, 2021 order, which required workers in high-risk settings, such as healthcare facilities, correctional facilities, and long term, adult, and senior care facilities, to verify their vaccination...

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The EEOC Updates Its COVID-19 and ADA Guidance Addressing Workplace Testing and Vaccination
07/27/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

On July 12, 2022, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) updated guidance concerning the interaction between the COVID-19 pandemic and the equal opportunity employment laws under its jurisdiction, including most notably the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”).
The updated guidance...

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Cal/OSHA to Consider Permanent COVID-19 Regulation
07/25/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

The Department of Industrial Relations (“DIR”) recently published an initial draft of a regulation that, if adopted by the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (“OSHSB” or “Board”), would replace the Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard (“ETS”) which will expire on January 1,...

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CDPH Redefines “Close Contact” and “Infectious Period,” Changing Workplace COVID-19 Prevention Requirements
06/28/2022

On June 8, 2022, the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) adopted new definitions for two terms that are critical to determining how employers must respond to COVID-19 cases in the workplace: “close contact” and “infectious period.”
The updated definitions will affect employer...

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Legal Obligations in the Event of a COVID-19 Outbreak in the Workplace
06/21/2022
California Public Agency Labor & Employment Blog

This post appeared in January 2022.  It has been reviewed and is up to date.
In light of the current surge in COVID-19 cases, it is important that employers understand their obligations in the event that there is a COVID-19 outbreak at one of their workplaces.
This blog post is intended to provide...

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OSHSB Readopts the COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standards
04/26/2022
LCW Special Bulletin
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Updated CDPH Guidance Removes Face Covering Requirements in Most Settings
03/01/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

On February 28, 2022, the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) updated its guidance concerning the use of face coverings to further relax those requirements.
While the updated CDPH guidance continues to require the use of face covering in certain high-risk settings, the guidance removes...

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CDPH Relaxes Face Covering Requirements
02/16/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

On February 7, 2022, the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) issued updated guidance concerning the use of face coverings in indoor public settings and businesses. The new rules concerning the use of face coverings takes effect on February 16, 2022, except where a local jurisdiction...

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Governor Enacts New COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Law
02/10/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

On February 9, 2022, Governor Newsom signed Senate Bill (“SB”) 114 into law. The law reauthorizes COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave (“SPSL”), providing paid leave entitlements to employees who are unable to work or telework due to a number of qualifying reasons related to COVID-19. The law...

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State Legislature Considers Bill to Reauthorize SPSL
02/08/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

This week, the California Legislature is considering the adoption of Assembly Bill (“AB”) 84, which would reauthorize COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave (“SPSL”). If passed, the bill would require that most employers in the state provide paid sick leave to employees for certain reasons related...

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The Governor and Legislative Leaders Announce Plans to Reauthorize COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave
01/27/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

On January 25, 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom announced that he and Senate President pro Tempore Toni Atkins and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon reached agreement on a framework that would provide new COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave (“SPSL”) entitlements to employees in the state.
While the...

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The Supreme Court of the United States Blocks Federal OSHA Mandate
01/19/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

On January 13, 2022, the Supreme Court of the United States issued two separate rulings in matters related to COVID-19.
The purpose of this bulletin is to explain those decisions and their import for employers in California.
Court Blocks Federal Vaccination/Test Mandate
In the most anticipated...

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CDPH Removes Isolation and Quarantine Requirements for Certain Health Care and Emergency Medical Services Personnel
01/14/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

On January 8, 2022, the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) issued an updated All Facilities Letter (“AFL”) to hospitals and skilled nursing facilities (“SNFs”) advising them of the temporary removal of the isolation and quarantine requirements for certain health care personnel...

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DOL Updates Rules Regarding Health Plan Coverage of COVID-19 Tests
01/13/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

Beginning on January 15, 2022, the United States Department of Labor (“DOL”) will require that employer-sponsored health plans cover or reimburse the costs associated with the purchase of over-the-counter (“OTC”) at-home rapid COVID-19 tests. The DOL issued guidance concerning the scope of this new...

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Cal/OSHA Clarifies Workplace Exclusion and Return-to-Work Requirements
01/10/2022
LCW Special Bulletin

On January 8, 2022, the Department of Industrial Relations (“DIR”) provided updated guidance concerning isolation and quarantine requirements that apply to employees in employer workplaces. The guidance incorporates a recent California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) update on isolation and...

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CDC Shortens Isolation/Quarantine Period
12/30/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On December 27, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) shortened its recommended isolation and quarantine periods for people who test positive for, or are exposed to COVID-19.  The reason for the change, according to the CDC, is that most transmissions of SARS-CoV-2 appear to...

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CDPH Requires Workers at Health Care Facilities to Receive Vaccine Boosters
12/29/2021

On December 22, 2021, the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) amended an existing State Health Order to require that workers at health care facilities who are eligible, receive a COVID-19 vaccine booster no later than February 1, 2022 in order to continue working at such facilities....

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Court Decision Paves Way for Forthcoming Vaccination/Testing Requirement
12/27/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On December 22, 2021, the United States Supreme Court stated that it would hear oral arguments on January 7, 2022 concerning the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”) regulation that requires that employees at middle and large-sized companies either be fully vaccinated...

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EEOC Releases Updated Guidance Clarifying When COVID-19 May Constitute a Disability
12/27/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On December 14, 2021, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) released guidance clarifying the circumstances under which a COVID-19 case may constitute a disability under federal equal employment opportunity (“EEO”) laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) and...

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OSHSB Adopts Regulatory Amendments to the COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standards
12/17/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On December 16, 2021, the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (OSHSB) adopted a number of amendments to the Emergency Temporary Standards (Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Regulations), which will likely take effect on December 26, 2021.
The purpose of this special bulletin is to identify and discuss...

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CDPH Issues Q&A on Face Covering Guidance
12/16/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On December 13, 2021, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued updated guidance concerning the mandatory use of face coverings in indoor public settings between December 15, 2021 and January 15, 2022. On December 14, 2021, the CDPH issued a Face Coverings Q&A to clarify certain...

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CDPH Issues Statewide Mask Mandate Effective December 15, 2021
12/14/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On December 13, 2021, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued updated guidance concerning the use of face coverings. The guidance, which requires that all individuals, regardless of their vaccination status, wear face coverings while in indoor public settings between December 15,...

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Infrastructure bill paves path for expanded use of project labor agreements, more equity in the building trades
11/23/2021
American City & County

In response to President Biden’s Nov. 15, 2021 signing of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, LCW Associate Alex Volberding explores Project Labor Agreements in the Nov. 22 American City & County piece “Infrastructure Bill Paves Path for Expanded Use of Project Labor...

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OSHSB Delays Consideration of Vaccination, Testing, and Face Covering Regulations
11/22/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On November 18, 2021, the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (“OSHSB”) delayed consideration of newly proposed regulations related to vaccination, testing, and face coverings that it had previously indicated it would consider at this meeting.
The OSHSB provided that the delay was...

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Will OSHA’s New COVID Regulation Reach California Employers?
11/17/2021
Daily Journal

Partner Peter Brown and Associates Alex Volberding, Brian Dierzé and Daniel Seitz weighed in on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) new COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard in a Nov. 15 Daily Journal column entitled “Will OSHA’s new COVID regulation reach California...

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KNX News, Radio Segment
11/09/2021
KNX News

KNX News interviewed LCW Associate Alex Volberding on November 8 on the recent passing of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.  The segment mentioned the bill was passed with the hope of boosting job openings in low-income communities and helping marginalized communities earn a pathway to...

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OSHA Regulation Encourages Vaccination Against COVID-19
11/08/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On November 4, 2021, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) promulgated a new regulation intended to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates. President Biden previewed this regulation in September 2021 when he announced a six-part COVID-19 Action Plan to combat the spread of the...

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EEOC Publishes New Guidance on Religious Accommodation Requests
10/29/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On October 25, 2021, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) added a new section on religious accommodations to its guidance concerning COVID-19 and equal employment opportunity (EEO) laws, “What You Should Know About COVID-19 and the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act, and other EEO Laws.”
The...

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Modified Reporting Requirements for COVID-19 Exposure
10/15/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On October 6, 2021, Governor Newsom signed into law Assembly Bill (AB) 654, which amends Labor Code section 6409.6 and modifies employer obligations related to reporting workplace COVID-19 exposures and outbreaks. The new law takes effect immediately and will remain in effect until January 1, 2023....

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CDPH Reduces Required Quarantine Period for Certain Unvaccinated Employees Following a Close Contact to COVID-19 Exposure
10/07/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

Under updated guidance issued by the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”), certain asymptomatic unvaccinated employees who have had a close contact exposure to someone with COVID-19 may end their quarantine and return to work seven (7) days after the exposure as opposed to ten (10) days....

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Religious Exemption Requests Are Stealing the Show from COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements
09/30/2021
California Public Agency Labor & Employment Blog

Over the last several months, mandatory vaccination requirements took center stage in the public response to COVID-19, but with the play getting underway and vaccination requirements becoming operative, it is the request for religious accommodation (i.e., exemption from vaccination requirements)...

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ERMA Legal Update: Legal Obligations Related to Managing Employee Requests for Religious Accommodations
09/28/2021
Employment Risk Management Authority

Given the recent COVID-19 vaccination mandates by state and local health authorities and mandatory vaccination policies adopted by a growing number of public agencies, many employees are asserting that they qualify for exemptions from such mandates due to the religious protections afforded to them...

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What to Expect After the Expiration of COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave
09/28/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

In March 2021, in response to the public health emergency caused by COVID-19, the California legislature adopted Senate Bill (SB) 95. The bill added Labor Code section 248.2, which required that employers provide COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave (SPSL) to their employees in the event that an...

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Federal COVID-19 Action Plan May Require Employers in California Adopt Vaccination or Weekly Testing Policies
09/10/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On September 9, President Biden issued a six-point COVID-19 action plan intended to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates and mitigate the negative public health consequences associated with the virus and its transmission in our communities.
Of most immediate interest and importance to employers in...

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KABC-TV Segment: Vaccine Mandates at the Workplace
08/10/2021
KABC-TV

LCW Associate Alex Volberding spoke with KABC-TV anchors John Gregory and Rachel Brown during an Aug. 7, 2021, segment centered on vaccine mandates at the workplace. Alex provided details on the segment topic, including: legal implications surrounding vaccination and/or weekly testing measures for...

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The Department of Justice Determines that Employers May Require Vaccinations Approved Under the Emergency Use Authorization
08/02/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) recently published an opinion addressing whether entities, including employers, may require vaccinations for COVID-19 using vaccines approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under its Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval process.
The opinion...

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PERB Holds that Mandating Vaccinations is Outside the Scope of Representation
07/30/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On July 26, the Public Employment Relations Board (“PERB”) issued an important decision concerning the negotiability of decisions regarding vaccination requirements. PERB’s decision opens the door for public employers to adopt mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policies, and do so without first...

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Employers Showing More Interest in Required Vaccinations
07/29/2021
Daily Journal

LCW Associate Alex Volberding weighed in on employers’ newfound interest in requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for employees in the July 29 Daily Journal article “Employers showing more interest in required vaccinations.” Alex shared that in relationship to California unionized workforces and public...

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Employer Comms Key To New Calif. COVID Rules Compliance
06/30/2021
Law360

LCW Partner Peter Brown and Associate Alex Volberding penned “Employer Comms Key To New Calif. COVID Rules Compliance” for the June 29 issue of Law360, which highlights the collaboration needed between employers and employees to increase the workforce vaccination rate and avoid negative operational...

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Requesting Proof of Employees’ Vaccination, Confidentiality Requirements, & Use and Disclosure of Employee Vaccination Information
06/18/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

With the recent adoption of amended Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Regulations, and its allowances for fully vaccinated employees, employers must consider how they will manage employees at their worksites and facilities, and whether they will make any distinction between employees who are fully vaccinated and...

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Newly Adopted Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Regulations Remove Certain Requirements Related to Physical Distancing, Face Coverings and Partitions
06/18/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On June 17, the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (OSHSB) readopted an amended version of the Emergency Temporary Standards (Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Regulations) (“June 17 Amendments”). These amendments affect many of the requirements that have been in place since OSHSB initially adopted the...

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The Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board Withdraws Its Proposed Amendments to the Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Regulations, Returns Workplaces to the Status Quo
06/10/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On June 9, the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (OSHSB) convened a special meeting for the second time in two weeks, this time to consider the withdrawal of the proposed regulations that the Board adopted at its June 3 meeting, amending in significant ways the Emergency Temporary...

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Amended Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Regulations Require that Employers Update their COVID-19 Prevention Programs and Take Other Actions
06/04/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On June 3, 2021, the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (OSHSB) adopted regulatory amendments to the Emergency Temporary Standards (Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Regulations). These amendments, which are the first since OSHSB promulgated the regulations in November 2020, will become effective on...

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The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Provides Updated Guidance Concerning COVID-19 Vaccinations and Vaccination Records
06/01/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On May 28, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) updated and expanded its technical assistance guidance related to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws implicated by the public health emergency caused by COVID-19 and employers’ response to that emergency.
The updated guidance...

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Guidance on COVID-19 and the Fair Labor Standards Act
05/24/2021
Daily Journal

LCW Partner Peter Brown and Associate Alex Volberding authored the article “Guidance on COVID-19 and the Fair Labor Standards Act” in the May 12, 2021, issue of the Daily Journal. The piece explores the Department of Labor’s updated guidance on the FLSA and its application to common...

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Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board Delays Consideration of Proposed Amendments to the Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Regulations
05/20/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On May 20, the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (OSHSB) met to consider proposed amendments to and re-adoption of the Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS or Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Regulations). Rather than amend or re-adopt the regulations, the OSHSB, at the request of staff from the...

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Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino requiring employees to get coronavirus vaccine
05/14/2021
Daily Bulletin

LCW Associate Alex Volberding was quoted in the May 11 article “Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino requiring employees to get coronavirus vaccine” published in the Daily Bulletin. The piece discusses the COVID-19 vaccination mandate the San Bernardino Center gave its employees,...

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Treasury Issues Interim Final Rule on Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund and Opens Process for Eligible Governments to Request Funding from the Fund
05/12/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On Monday, May 10, the Treasury Department issued the Interim Final Rule (Rule) concerning the operation of the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery (CLFR) Fund and opened the portal through which qualified governmental entities, including metropolitan cities and counties, may to apply to Treasury for...

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Department of Industrial Relations Clarifies Reason for Employee Use of COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave for Closure or Unavailability of the Employee’s Child’s School or Place of Care
04/29/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On April 20, the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) updated its guidance concerning Labor Code section 248.2 and provided its interpretation concerning the circumstances under which employees may qualify for COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave (SPSL) due to the closure or unavailability of...

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Qualification for Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery (“CLFR”) Fund Payments for Local Governmental Entities and Pre-Award Requirements for Such Payments
04/16/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On April 15, 2021, the Department of Treasury released information concerning the pre-award requirements in order for certain local governmental entities to receive payments from Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery (“CLFR”) Fund for “covered costs” related to COVID-19 and for other limited purposes....

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Governor Newsom Enacts SB95, Obligating Most Public Employers to Provide COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave to their Employees
03/22/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On March 19, 2021, Governor Newsom signed into law Senate Bill (“SB”) 95, codifying at Labor Code section 248.2 new obligations on public agency employers to provide COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave to employees who are unable to work or telework and have certain enumerated qualifying reasons...

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Can Employers Mandate the COVID-19 Vaccine?
03/17/2021
Orange County Register, Daily Breeze, Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, Press-Telegram, Los Angeles Daily News, Pasadena Star-News, Redlands Daily Facts, The Press-Enterprise, The San Bernardino Sun, San Gabriel Valley Tribune and Whittier Daily News

Peter Brown and Alexander Volberding were both recently quoted in “Can employers mandate the COVID-19 vaccine?” which was published in the Orange County Register, Daily Breeze, Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, Press-Telegram, Los Angeles Daily News, Pasadena Star-News, Redlands Daily Facts, The...

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Release Guidance for Vaccinated Individuals
03/11/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On March 8, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released new guidance and interim public health recommendations for fully vaccinated individuals. The guidance provides that fully vaccinated individuals may resume certain activities, such as gathering indoors and without masks...

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Senate Passes the American Rescue Plan Act Promising Critical Funding to Local Governments and the Potential for Additional Relief to Public Employees
03/08/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On March 6, the United States Senate adopted an amended version of House Resolution (“HR”) 1319, the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, a $1.9 trillion legislative package intended to address the economic damage caused by COVID-19.
For local governments, the passage of the American Rescue Plan Act...

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CDPH Reduces Quarantine Period Following “Close Contact” Exposures to Align with CDC Guidance
03/06/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On December 7, the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) issued updated guidance concerning the recommended quarantine period for individuals following a “close contact” exposure to someone with COVID-19. This guidance now aligns with comparable advice provided by the Centers for Disease...

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CDPH Updates Travel Advisory to Revise the Recommended Quarantine Period Following Interstate and International Travel and to Warn Against Non-Essential Intrastate Travel
03/06/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On January 6, 2021, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) updated its November 13, 2020 travel advisory concerning non-essential interstate travel and the quarantine period for individuals who engage in such travel.
The new CDPH guidance makes two important changes to its prior travel...

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Identifying and Addressing the Legal Issues Implicated by Voluntary Employer-Sponsored COVID-19 Vaccination Programs
03/04/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

While most employers have decided against mandating COVID-19 vaccinations, some employers are considering offering their employees vaccinations on a voluntary basis or other ways to encourage their employees to be vaccinated.
When an employer is deciding whether to adopt a “voluntary vaccination...

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FOX News Segment with Peter Brown & Alex Volberding
01/22/2021
FOX News

Partner Peter Brown and Associate Alex Volberding were recently highlighted during a FOX News segment on employer-mandated vaccinations.

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Labor Law, Union Implications for Employer-Mandated COVID Vaccines
01/22/2021
Bloomberg Law

Peter Brown and Alexander Volberding recently penned a Bloomberg Law piece “Labor Law, Union Implications for Employer-Mandated Covid Vaccines,” which was published Jan. 21. The piece discusses how employers will likely have to bargain with labor organizations that represent their employees prior...

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Cal/OSHA Provides Questions and Answers Regarding New Regulations Related to COVID-19
01/14/2021
LCW Special Bulletin

On January 8, the Department of Occupational and Safety (Cal/OSHA) updated its interpretive guidance concerning emergency COVID-19 regulations that took effect on November 30, 2020. The guidance reflects new information concerning employer obligations and employee entitlements under both Title 8...

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The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Updates Guidance Concerning the Permissibility of Requiring COVID-19 Vaccinations
12/23/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On December 16, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) updated existing guidance in order to address COVID-19 vaccinations. In addition to discussing vaccinations in the context of equal employment opportunity (“EEO”) laws, the guidance also discusses the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act...

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Governor Issues Executive Order Revising Cal/OSHA Quarantine Guidance and Addressing Other COVID-19 Related Issues
12/17/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

This article was reviewed January 2021 and the information is up-to-date.
 
On December 14, 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-84-20 (the “Order”), addressing a number of issues related to COVID-19 and the present public health emergency.
In this bulletin, we address several...

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Responding to COVID-19 Outbreaks
12/16/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On November 19, 2020, the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (“OSHSB”) issued a series of new regulations related to COVID-19, which are set forth in Title 8 of the California Code of Regulations (“C.C.R.”) Sections 3205 through 3205.4 (“Cal/OSHA regulations”). While employers have...

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Permissibility of Requiring that Public Employees Receive a COVID-19 Vaccination
12/07/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

Given the recent news coverage concerning COVID-19 vaccines and the government’s distribution plan for such vaccines, many of our public agency clients have inquired whether it will be permissible to require that agency employees be vaccinated for COVID-19. This question is important from a public...

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Governor Newsom Announces New Regional Stay At Home Order (Public Agencies/Public Education)
12/04/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On December 3, in order to slow the unprecedented rise in the rate of increase in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in the state, Governor Gavin Newsom announced a new Regional Stay At Home Order (the “Order”).
The Order will take effect on December 5, 2020 in any region of the state, as...

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CDC Reduces Recommended Quarantine Period Following “Close Contact” Exposures to Individuals with COVID-19
12/03/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On December 2, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) issued updated guidance concerning the recommended quarantine period for individuals following a “close contact” exposure to someone with COVID-19. The guidance reduces the recommended quarantine period from 14 days to either 10...

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Cal/OSHA Board Adopts Emergency Regulations Regarding COVID-19 for Public Agencies and Nonprofits
11/30/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On November 19, 2020, pursuant to emergency rulemaking authority, the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (“OSHSB”) adopted temporary regulations regarding measures that employers must undertake in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace (“emergency...

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Cal/OSHA Board Adopts Emergency Regulations Regarding COVID-19 for Public Educational Institutions
11/30/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On November 19, 2020, pursuant to emergency rulemaking authority, the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (“OSHSB”) adopted temporary regulations regarding measures that all employers must undertake in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace (“emergency...

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Cal/OSHA Board Adopts Emergency Regulations Regarding COVID-19 for Private Schools
11/30/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On November 19, 2020, pursuant to emergency rulemaking authority, the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (“OSHSB”) adopted temporary regulations regarding measures that all employers must undertake in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace (“emergency...

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Cal/OSHA-Compliant Template COVID-19 Prevention Program (“CPP”) Available
11/30/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On November 25, 2020, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore issued a special bulletin concerning an emergency regulation (8 C.C.R. 3205) that the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (“OSHSB”) adopted concerning the adoption and implementation of a COVID-19 Prevention Program (“CPP”). The...

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Cal/OSHA Board Adopts Emergency Regulations Regarding COVID-19 for Public Agencies
11/25/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On November 19, 2020, pursuant to emergency rulemaking authority, the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (“OSHSB”) adopted temporary regulations regarding measures that employers must undertake in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace (“emergency...

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California Department of Public Health and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention Issue Updated Guidance for the Use of Face Coverings
11/24/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On November 16, 2020, in response to significant increases in the incidence rates of COVID-19 in the state, the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) issued updated guidance concerning the use of face coverings. The updated guidance requires that individuals wear a face covering at all...

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California Department of Public Health Issues Updated Guidance for the Use of Face Coverings
11/20/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On November 16, 2020, in response to significant increases in the incidence rates of COVID-19 in the state, the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) issued updated guidance concerning the use of face coverings. The updated guidance requires that individuals wear a face covering at all...

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California Department of Public Health Issues COVID-19 Travel Advisory Recommending 14-Day Self Quarantine for Any Non-Essential Travel Out of State
11/13/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On November 13, 2020, in response to alarming increases in the incidence rates of COVID-19 in other countries and states, the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) issued a travel advisory to California residents.
The travel advisory expressly recommends that California residents avoid...

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Best Practices to Avoid Employment Litigation Related to COVID-19
10/02/2020
Western City Magazine

Partner Brian P. Walter and Associate Alexander Volberding authored the Western City article, “Best Practices to Avoid Employment Litigation Related to COVID-19,” discussing how public agencies can avoid costly litigation in the era of COVID-19. Read full article: https://bit.ly/2GkJr0P

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Department of Labor Issues Revised Regulations Concerning the Families First Coronavirus Response Act for Public Agencies
09/14/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On September 11, 2020, the Department of Labor (“DOL”) promulgated three revised regulations concerning the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA”) (29 C.F.R. 826.) The revised regulations will take effect on September 16, 2020, upon publication of the revised rule...

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Assembly Bill 1867 Provides Statutory Entitlement to “COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave” to Public Employees Exempted from Receipt of Leave Benefits under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA”)
09/10/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On September 9, 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill (“AB”) 1867 into law. This bill adds Labor Code Section 248.1, which provides up to 80 hours of COVID-19 related supplemental paid sick leave (“COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave”) for “emergency responder” and “health care...

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Governor Newsom and the California Department of Public Health Announce New Framework for Reopening
09/01/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On August 28, 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom announced a new risk-based framework by which the California Department of Public Health (“CDPH”) will determine what activities are permitted in counties throughout the state (“Blueprint for a Safer Economy”). While most governmental operations are...

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Update: State Issues New Guidance for Reopening of Businesses and Office Spaces
05/14/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On May 12, 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom announced that two counties—Butte and El Dorado—satisfied state readiness criteria under Expanded Phase 2 of the state’s Reopening Plan, and would be permitted to authorize the reopening of certain businesses in those jurisdictions, including office-based...

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State Issues New Guidance For Reopening Of Businesses And Office Spaces
05/13/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On May 12, 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom announced that two counties—Butte and El Dorado—satisfied state readiness criteria under Phase 2 of the state’s Reopening Plan, and would be permitted to authorize the reopening of certain businesses in those jurisdictions.
Since the initial announcement, 14...

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Governor Newsom Issues Executive Order Establishing Workers’ Compensation Presumption Regarding Contraction of COVID-19
05/07/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On May 6, 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-62-20 establishing “presumptive eligibility” for workers’ compensation benefits to any employee who is directed to report to their place of employment and then subsequently contracts COVID-19 during the time period between March 19 and...

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Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Issues New Guidance Authorizing Employers to Test Employees for COVID-19 for Non-Profit Employers
04/30/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On April 23, 2020, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) issued updated guidance concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) and the Rehabilitation Act and how employers may respond to the public health emergency caused by COVID-19. The EEOC makes clear that while the laws...

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Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Issues New Guidance Authorizing Employers to Test Employees for COVID-19
04/29/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On April 23, 2020, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) issued updated guidance concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) and the Rehabilitation Act and how employers may respond to the public health emergency caused by COVID-19. The EEOC makes clear that while the laws...

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Guide to Understanding the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (“PEUC”) Program Under the CARES Act
04/20/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

Note: This is the second of a two-part series concerning federal unemployment assistance. You may access the first bulletin here.
On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) into law. Under that Act, the federal government...

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Ensuring That Employees with Reduced Hours Qualify for Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (“FPUC”) under the CARES Act for Non-Profit Employers
04/13/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

Note: This is the first of a two-part series concerning federal unemployment assistance.
On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) into law. Under that Act, the federal government established two programs to expand unemployment...

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Ensuring That Employees with Reduced Hours Qualify for Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (“FPUC”) under the CARES Act for Private Schools
04/13/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

Note: This is the first of a two-part series concerning federal unemployment assistance.
On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) into law. Under that Act, the federal government established two programs to expand unemployment...

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Ensuring that Employees with Reduced Hours Qualify for Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (“FPUC”) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”)
04/09/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) into law. Under that Act, the federal government established two programs to expand unemployment assistance to workers who lose their jobs or work hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The...

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Determining the Employees Essential to Your Agency’s Function and Complying with Executive Order N-33-20
04/06/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On March 19, 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-33-20 (“Order”), which effectively imposed a statewide shutdown of non-essential business and governmental operations.  This Special Bulletin was updated on April 6 to reflect the most current guidance and orders.
The analysis...

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Department of Labor Issues Temporary Regulations Concerning Paid Leave Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA”)
04/03/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On April 1, 2020, the Department of Labor (“DOL”) issued temporary regulations concerning the paid leave provisions under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA”), including the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act (“EPSLA”) and Emergency Family and Medical Leave Expansion Act (“EFMLEA”). The...

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Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act Enacted into Law
03/27/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On March 27, President Trump signed into law HR 748, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act, which provides for $2 trillion in relief assistance to businesses, non-profits, state and local governments, public agencies and special districts, public elementary and secondary...

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Update: CalPERS Suspends Retired Annuitant Work Hour Limitation During COVID-19 Emergency
03/19/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

On March 4, 2020, Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-25-20.  The executive order, among other things, suspended certain restrictions applicable to retired annuitants.  On March 18, 2020, the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (“CalPERS”) issued Circular Letter 200-015-20,...

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How Public Employers Should Respond to Employees’ Exposure To COVID-19
03/06/2020
LCW Special Bulletin

This Special Bulletin follows up on our February 5, 2020 Special Bulletin on COVID-19, the novel coronavirus of 2019.  The information in that Special Bulletin remains valid, including those steps individuals can take to lessen the spread of the virus.
In the past month, COVID-19 spread throughout...

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Notice Requirements Under COBRA: Check it Twice!
01/07/2020
California Public Agency Labor & Employment Blog

The beginning of the New Year (and a new plan year for many public agencies) is a good time to review key provisions of the Comprehensive Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (“COBRA”), including what notice requirements COBRA imposes on public agencies.
This year, make a resolution to ensure that...

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