Insights

As employers nationwide have turned to teleworking to help “flatten the curve,” the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on March 20 that it will defer the physical presence requirement of the Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9) under Section 274A of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Ordinarily, the employer “must physically examine” the approved document(s) within three days of the employee’s first day of employment.

To help employers grappling with how to respond and handle a variety of challenges caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in the United States, we have compiled some answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the latest guidance from federal agencies when it comes to managing your employees. We have also noted where state laws may also be applicable to certain situations.

Consistent with yesterday’s Construction update from Gould & Ratner, Judy Frydland, commissioner of the City of Chicago Department of Buildings, has confirmed in this email communication that construction can proceed in Chicago as an essential infrastructure exception to the Stay Home Order issued by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker that took effect at 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 21.

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker yesterday issued an executive order advising the state’s citizens to stay home and allowing only essential businesses to keep operating beginning on March 21, 2020.

In addition to issues regarding the viability of future projects, the coronavirus pandemic has created concerns whether if, or when, your current construction project may be shut down.

In a 90-8 vote, the Senate yesterday passed a new version of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (Response Act) that was signed into law by the President. By way of background, the U.S. House of Representatives over the weekend passed its first version of the Relief Bill in response to the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19).