COVID-19 Temporary Layoff Extension Period Expires On August 30th

As discussed in prior blog posts, the Employment Standards Regulation was previously amended to extend the temporary layoff period due to COVID-19 to a maximum of 24 weeks in a period of 28 consecutive weeks provided the layoff started before June 1, 2020 and ended by August 30, 2020. Employers wishing to extend the temporary layoff period beyond 24 weeks must apply for a variance.

Employers with reasonable plans to recall employees by a specific date that falls after August 30^th may apply for a variance to extend the temporary layoff period pursuant to section 72 of the Employment Standards Act. Variances are granted at the discretion of the Director of Employment Standards (the "Director") on a case by case basis. Variance applications require: