QUESTION
Returning to work after covid-19 closure
Asked on Apr 30th, 2020 on Labor and Employment - Pennsylvania
More details to this question:
My employer has been closed since March, but we are looking to possibly reopen in the next few weeks. I currently live with and care for my partner of 20 years who is currently going through cancer treatments and has a compromised immune system. I work with the public and I am concerned about returning to work and the possibility of carrying this home to him. Is there any protection for people like myself who live with and or care for someone that has a compromised immune system and should stay home to protect them? Would I be eligible for unemployment if I do choose to stay home?
1 ANSWER
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Hello,
You might qualify for unemployment under these circumstances. The general rule is that if you voluntarily reisgn, you are only eligible for unemployment if the resignation was for a "necessitous and compelling reason." Also, you only qualify if you have exhausted other available remedies. For example, in this case, it may be best for you to see if your employer is taking reasonable steps to protect its employees, such as enforcing social distancing practices and/or providing personal protective equipment before you resign or otherwise refuse to show up for work. Ultimately, whether you would qualify for benefits would depend on the specifics facts of your situation.
Answered on Apr 30th, 2020 at 4:12 PM