Independent Catering and Event Professionals Eligible for Unemployment Assistance Under Federal CARES Act Stimulus Bill

Richard Reibstein, a Partner in Locke Lord’s Labor and Employment Practice in New York and co-head of the Firm’s Independent Contractor Misclassification and Compliance Practice, authored an article for the National Association of Catering and Events focused on how the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) benefit independent contractors in the industry. Reibstein notes the CARES Act entitles individuals to “pandemic unemployment assistance” if they are able and willing to work or telework for pay, but are unable to do so due to a broad range of reasons related to the COVID-19 pandemic. He goes on to outline the specific eligibility requirements.

Reibstein also discusses paid sick time made available to independent professionals through the FFCRA for up to ten days where the individual is unable to work because they are subject to a government quarantine or order of isolation related to COVID-19; have been advised by a health care provider to self-quarantine; or are experiencing symptoms of Coronavirus and seeking medical attention.