As coronavirus continues to spread in the United States, more and more businesses have to close their doors or cut back hours, spelling trouble for employees. From restaurant and hotel workers to musicians and retail staff, hundreds of thousands of jobs are being impacted by the crisis.
The Trump administration warned Senate Republicans in a closed-door meeting that COVID-19-related unemployment levels could reach as high as 20 percent. While this is a controversial estimate, the rise in unemployment is one sign that the American economy is in serious jeopardy.
President Trump signed into law a relief bill that expands unemployment assistance and provides paid sick and family leave for some for U.S. workers impacted by the crisis. Lawmakers are now working on a third, even larger, package that could include direct payments to Americans in need.
What relief is available to workers who face layoffs? What can be done to help those suddenly without a paycheck, gig work or tips because of the coronavirus crisis?
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