Over the weekend, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). As currently written, the proposed legislation offers qualified workers up to 12 weeks of Family and Medical Leave Act leave, paid sick leave, and tax credits for employers and self-employed individuals.

Also over the weekend, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced new recommendations to combat the spread of the virus. Among other steps, the CDC advises against holding gatherings of 50 people or more. In response, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker mandated that any gathering of 50 or more be canceled in the State of Illinois, and that all bars and restaurants close starting tonight (with certain exceptions for carry-out businesses). This afternoon, President Trump urged the public to avoid "discretionary" travel, frequenting restaurants or bars, attending school in person, and gathering in groups of 10 or more.  

The U.S. Senate may make significant changes to the FFCRA, which the House will consider before the legislation can be sent to the President for final approval. We are actively consulting with elected representatives in the House and Senate and advocating for our clients who will be among the hardest hit by the new legislation and closures, including owners of restaurants and bars. As soon as there is clarity on the final version of the law, we will send you an update with further details.