Below is a press release from the office of State Representative Dave Robertson:
With a deluge of news on both federal and state responses to COVID-19, one can easily feel overwhelmed. In these current times it is my duty, as your State Representative, to help assemble and distill the available information. I have out together what I feel is the most relevant information and answers to your questions that will aid you in staying safe, healthy, and financially secure. If you have further questions on any other topics or concerns about anything I have compiled here, know that my office is still fully functional and I am ready to serve you however I can.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have been laid off/on salary and have partial hours/ have been asked to “volunteer”; what should I do?
As per the Attorney General, your employer must pay your outstanding wages and any accrued sick time you have banked, that day. They cannot use COVID 19 as a reason to withhold or delay your money.
If you have been partially laid off on salary and are not EAP exempt you need to be paid for the days you work. An employer may require you to use vacation days on days you are given no work. If you are on a fluctuating work week you should be paid as usual.
The federal Department of Labor has very stringent requirements on what constitutes a volunteer for both a business or non-profit, and typically requires minimum wage to be paid. Companies cannot require you to perform normal duties for a reduced salary under contract nor require you to volunteer due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
If you have questions on this please reach out to my office or the Attorney General for clarification.
My boss says that there is sick leave time/more federal sick leave time/which do I use?
Massachusetts law requires one hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked, and time may be used to quarantine or provide care for someone ill in the family.12 weeks of additional time was given to employees in companies with less than 500 employees by the federal government through the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. This act does not require pay the first 10 days, but does thereafter. Whenever possible it is recommended to take advantage of this act and to conserve sick leave days as this law will expire December 31st of this year.
I believe that I have encountered price gouging, what should I do?
The Attorney Generals consumer protection division has readied itself to receive and prosecute complaints of price gouging. According to 940 CMR 3:18 which is the law that governs pricing, there is no set difference in price that constitutes gouging, but rather defines it as “the price at which the same good or service was sold or offered for sale by the business in the usual course of business immediately prior to the onset of the declared statewide or national emergency” or what is at nearby stores. Please understand that due to increased employee compensation and other transit costs at the time you may see slight price increases which will likely not be pursued. If you believe you have found a legitimate instance call (617) 727-8400.
I am afraid that I may lose my house or apartment, what should I do?
The state has greatly increased the RAFT program for those who rent, and have asked mortgage companies to defer payments for three months. If you rent and are in need of assistance please call my office as the administrative agencies differ for Tewksbury and Wilmington. If you have issues with your mortgage provider please call so we may approach the respective lender.
I have lost my health insurance along with my job and feel ill, what should I do?
For the duration of the crisis both Masshealth and the Health Connector have been working overtime to help provide public insurance and prevent minor medical issues from becoming calamities. Please call to describe your situation in detail so we may connect you with the proper plan. Enrollment has been extended to April 25th.
My child went to public college but is now back at home, will I get reimbursement for room and board?
Both UMass Lowell and Amherst have announced reimbursement policies related to the COVID 19 outbreak and will be showing reimbursements on student online portals with respect to the price of fees to each family. For families with students at other institutions please consult their respective bursar’s offices, or contact my office.
I cannot find my prescription in stock/I require scarce medical equipment, who do I call?
Keeping you safe and healthy, as well as out of a strained medical system, is our top priority. Please call so that we may make emergency requests to managing authorities for your issue. Please note that these must be diagnosed by a medical professional, and must be backed with medical requirements. Requests for medication for “home remedies” or like uses will not be authorized.
I cannot afford food or heat, where do I go?
The state has authorized additional funds for LIHEAP and SNAP benefits due to loss of work, and has assigned extra case workers to help process requests. Applications may be done online or you may call our office so that we can schedule a call back to you in the absence of a computer.
I need to get this document for my SNAP/MassHealth/License/Unemployment submitted to the state and I don’t have a computer or fax, what should I do?
Please send me a message or call, I will pick up your paperwork from you in a closed envelope you my leave in your door and send it to the proper agency from my scanner. Alternatively, you may send us a photo of the document – that may suffice depending on the agency.
As always, life is not black and white and you may need guidance on your individual situation. Please feel free to reach out to my office at any time with questions specific to you, your business, or employer.
Yours in service,
Representative Robertson
617-722-2210
david.robertson@mahouse.gov
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