But most policymakers agree that it is better for workers to remain idle during the crisis rather than be laid off entirely.
“We don’t really know what is going to come out from a liability standpoint from COVID-19,” Alka Ramchandani-Raj, of counsel at Littler Mendelson, said. “Some cases may be brought with regards to safety violations. There have also been inquiries from plaintiffs attorneys on WARN Act requirements.”
The wave of COVID-19 litigation has begun in haste and poses a real threat to employers, most of whom are already grappling with the economic fallout from this pandemic.
People are asking if they can make a business decision to lay people off … given the new law. And the answer is yes.