The sudden and dramatic effects of COVID-19 in the United States
have left employers grappling with unprecedented lockdown orders
from state and local governments, in addition to
government-mandated closures of certain businesses and
establishments. As a result, many employers are faced with the
reality that layoffs, furloughs, and/or closures have occurred or
may soon become necessary.
Depending on its size, an employer may have obligations under
the federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN
Act) and similar state statutes known as "mini-WARN
Acts." Employers should be aware of these requirements and the
exemptions that may be applicable to layoffs and closures resulting
from COVID-19.
