MA Economic Development Update – Resources for Artists and More
DATE: April 2, 2020 CATEGORIES: Blog, Community, COVID-19, News
| NEW TODAY |
| Governor’s Non-Essential Business Closures Extended Governor Baker’s emergency order requiring that all businesses and organizations that do not provide “COVID-19 Essential Services” close their physical workplaces will be extended until May 4. Businesses and organizations not on the list of essential services are encouraged to continue operations through remote means that do not require workers, customers, or the public to enter or appear at the brick-and-mortar premises closed by the order. |
| General update: Massachusetts is accepting donations or sales of personal protective equipment here. Although this newsletter focuses on the business aspects of the new CARES Act, the City released a more thorough summary of its provisions here. |
| RESOURCES & INITIATIVES |
| Employee Rights and The Families First Coronavirus Response Act The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA or Act) requires certain employers to provide their employees with paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19. These provisions will apply from April 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020. This document from the Wage and Hour Division of the U.S. Department of Labor offers a concise overview. |
| Resources for Artists The Somerville Arts Council has compiled a list of resources for artists during the coronavirus pandemic. |
| Weekly Virtual Town Hall for Businesseses Join us on Thursday at 3pm for an update about what City staff are working for and a chance to ask questions. |
| Employment Law for Businesses Cambridge Local First is hosting a virtual meeting with Amy Carlin, employment lawyer, to discuss aspects of employment law that will be useful for small businesses right now. Join us Friday, April 3 at 3pm. Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/488950735 Phone: (929) 205-6099; Conference line – 488950735 |
| Small Business Lease Negotiation Workshop The Harvard Transactional Law Clinic and East Somerville Main Streets are hosting a small business lease negotiation workshop. Join us Wednesday, April 8 at 10:00am. |