Sent: 2020-04-13
From: EIU
To: Various Recipients
Subject: Information regarding Families First Coronavirus Response Act
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act was recently signed into law by President Trump. This act is effective
April 1, 2020 and creates the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act and amends the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 to help protect families and workers during the COVID-19 outbreak. Below is a summarized breakdown of what this Act may provide to employees who
are being affected by the COVID-19 virus.
Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act
Provides two weeks paid sick leave to employees unable to work or telework due to COVID-19 for eligible reasons,
regardless of leave time earned per EIU’s leave policy. Both full-time and part-time employees are eligible for the emergency paid sick leave if they meet certain criteria. Part-time employees will be eligible for pro-rated hours based on their work schedule.
More information about eligible categories of employees, reasons allowed for taking this leave, amount of pay provided, and other specifics can be found at this link: https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/WHD/posters/FFCRA_Poster_WH1422_Non-Federal.pdf.
Emergency Family and Medical Leave Act
Extends family and medical leave to include a qualifying reason for employees unable to work or telework because
their child’s school or day care has closed, or their care provider is unavailable due to COVID-19. Certain restrictions apply. More information about eligible categories of employees, reasons allowed for taking this leave, amount of pay provided, and other
specifics can be found at this link: https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/WHD/posters/FFCRA_Poster_WH1422_Non-Federal.pdf
EIU’s human resources office is working to establish processes and forms that will assist in processing both types of leaves. For
specific information or questions related to eligibility, please contact the Benefits Office atbenefits@eiu.edu or call 581-5825. We are only responding to phone calls or e-mails at this time to comply with social distancing directives.
Please note, employees are not entitled to a pay-out for any unused leave provided by this Act upon termination, resignation, retirement
or other types of separation from employment.
As a final note, we recognize this may be a stressful time for our campus community. The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available
for those who may need some assistance during this time. The EAP offers 3 free visits, and is a voluntary and confidenti
