People staying home from work because of the Coronavirus may get help from some emergency legislation.
The Ford government has drafted a bill that aims to help workers keep their jobs if they have to self-isolate, or care for someone who is quarantined.
The legislation will include directing employers to provide protected leave.
It would also remove the requirement for workers to get a doctor’s note to be allowed to take time off for quarantine or self-isolation.
The proposed legislation would, if passed, provide job protection for employees unable to work for the following reasons:
· The employee is under medical investigation, supervision or treatment for COVID-19.
· The employee is acting in accordance with an order under the Health Protection and Promotion Act.
· The employee is in isolation or quarantine.
· The employee is acting in accordance with public health information or direction.
· The employer directs the employee not to work.
· The employee needs to provide care to a person for a reason related to COVID-19 such as a school or day-care closure.
The legislation will also protect those needing to be away from work to care for children during school and daycare closures.
Premier Ford notes many workers will be eligible for Employment Insurance sickness benefits.
He adds the government is reviewing current access and eligibility to emergency assistance which is available through the Ontario Works program to support individuals who are impacted by the Coronavirus and who are not able to meet their basic living expenses.
The NDP appear to be in favour, with Leader Andrea Horwath saying she will help it pass but she wants to strengthen the bill with additional supports for shelters and hospitals as well as add more protections for workers.
Horwath said her top unaddressed concerns include:
–Protecting people from losing a paycheque, or being expected to get by on inadequate Employment Insurance or Ontario Works payments alone, as a result of taking COVID-19 precautions or because of the illness
–Guaranteeing that no one can be punished in any way for missing a rent or mortgage payment
–Financial support for Ontarians not covered by Employment Insurance — especially those working in the gig economy
–Immediate financial support for small and medium-sized businesses so they can continue to pay employees without becoming insolvent-
–Specific supports for vulnerable people, including seniors and those receiving OW and ODSP support, so they can access the groceries and medications they need to self-isolate if need be
