News Digest 4-1-2020

Quote of the day

“If somebody has anxiety about an epidemic and wants to ask for reasonable accommodations, that could be a reasonably effective approach. Social distancing could be something they ask as a reasonable accommodation.”

Kathleen Cahill, a Baltimore-based employment attorney

Baltimore Sun

 

Bismarck Tribune editorial: Workers’ comp benefits critical amid pandemic

North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum last week signed an executive order that extends workers’ compensation to first responders and healthcare providers who contract COVID-19 on the job, and provides up to 14 days of medical and wage replacement benefits if essential first responders must be quarantined. Bismarck Tribune

 

Pennsylvania agency addresses workers’ comp questions

The secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry Secretary on Monday held a media-only conference to go over unemployment and workers’ compensation questions for those who have been impacted by the coronavirus. WOLF (Wilkes-Barre, Pa.)

 

Virginia workers’ comp commission extends hold on in-person hearings

The Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission has extended its cancellation of in-person commission hearings and mediations through April 30. The hold previously was set to expire March 31. Virginia Lawyers Weekly

 

Maryland: What happens if a co-worker tests positive, and other questions

Here are a few questions from Marylanders about employee rights and answers from experts during the coronavirus outbreak. Baltimore Sun