As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, most businesses were faced with making difficult decisions regarding their workforce. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that, in April, the unemployment rate rose to 14.7 percent totaling 23.1 million unemployed. While the number of new unemployment claims appears to be dropping, for the week ending May 2, 2020, the number of initial unemployment claims made is still figured at 3.16 million.
As businesses prepare to reopen, many employers may find themselves grappling with employee refusals to return to work based on concerns over possible exposure to COVID-19 infection or because employees may be faring better under the unemployment benefits system. Click here for more information and considerations for employers dealing with this issue.