Last updated: 4/24/2020

 What if COVID-19 causes a mass layoff or plant closure?

A law called the WARN Act requires employers to promptly notify workers of mass layoffs. Employers must notify each worker in writing of the layoffs, and do so 60 days prior to the layoffs unless the employer has a good reason for providing shorter notice. COVID-19 may or may not be a good reason for shorter notice, depending on each employer’s circumstances.  

A mass layoff only happens when 50 or more workers are laid off within a 30-day period.

Only large employers (100 or more workers) must give WARN Act notice.

If an employer fails to give the notice required by the WARN Act, laid off employees may be entitled to their wages for up to 60 days.

If you were surprised by a sudden mass layoff and want to know your legal rights, you may apply for our services by calling our hotline: (833) 329-8752.

You will also likely qualify for unemployment benefits. See [https://www.trla.org/can-i-get-unemployment-benefits-if-i-lose-my-job-because-of-covid19] for more information.