Insights

The already-exhausted Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is expected to soon receive a $310 billion infusion of new funding in the next few days.

The already-exhausted Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is expected to soon receive a $310 billion infusion of new funding in the next few days.

In addition to the typical risks in every construction project, the current and lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have created a whole new set of risks that would have been unimaginable only a few short weeks ago. Moreover, owners and contractors alike must identify and manage these risks while navigating the patchwork of constantly changing and often inconsistent state, county and city orders, which limit or even halt construction projects. (A summary of these various state orders can be found here.)

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has released enforcement guidance for recording cases of COVID-19. The guidance is specifically intended to be time-limited to the current public health crisis and is in effect until further notice.

The current low interest rate environment resulting fromthe ongoing COVID-19 pandemic may provide individuals whose estates are expected to exceed the federal estate tax exemption amounts (currently $23,160,000 for a married couple) an opportunity to benefit from certain gift planning techniques.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) has announced its implementation of expanded unemployment benefits under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, including: