The COVID-19 pandemic has emptied hotels.

Occupancy rates have plummeted.  Owners and operators are laying off staff and closing hotels.

But in the midst of a crisis, need and opportunity meet.  Cities across the country, desperate for beds to house first responders, trained medical personnel, or infected patients that just need a place to self-isolate, are turning to these same hotels for accommodation.  The hotel industry is responding and providing sanctuary in the time of crisis.

But these are no ordinary times and these are no ordinary agreements.   The following includes some of the key issues for hotel owners and operators to consider before opening their doors as sanctuary housing.

Click for pdf: Issues for Hotel Owners and Operators To Consider Before Opening Their Doors As Sanctuary Housing

As you are aware, things are changing quickly and there is no clear-cut authority or bright line rules in this area. This Blog does not reflect an unequivocal statement of the law, but instead represents our best interpretation of where thing currently stand. This Blog does not address the potential impacts of the numerous other local, state and federal orders that have been issued in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, including, without limitation, potential liability should an employee become ill, requirements regarding family leave, sick pay and other issues.