Late last week, the Ontario government amended a number of measures already introduced in light of COVID-19. It updated the “COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool” to include an expanded list of symptoms for which self-isolation is required. It made further orders under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act regarding health care, an expanded list of essential workers eligible for child care and seasonal campgrounds. The federal government provided more information on initiatives already underway, including with respect to the eligibility requirements for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB).
Industry: Retail & Wholesale Trade
Federally Regulated DB Pension Plans Given Temporary Relief as a Result of COVID-19
On April 15, 2020, the federal government announced that, effective immediately, it is providing temporary relief to sponsors of federally regulated defined benefit (DB) pension plans, in light of the pandemic’s negative effect on the economy and the resulting financial constraints faced by many sponsors. For the remainder of 2020, there will be a moratorium…
WSIB Claims in Light of COVID-19
The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) has published a “Frequently Asked Questions” page to address questions regarding COVID-19 claims, the impact of COVID-19-related closures on injured workers, and changes in WSIB processes during this period. Below is a brief summary of the key points.
Federal Wage Subsidy Legislation Passed
On April 11, 2020, Bill C-14, the COVID-19 Emergency Response Act, No. 2, (Bill C-14), received Royal Assent after another emergency session of Parliament. Bill C-14 enacts the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS). It includes new details about which employers are eligible, and the calculation of gross revenue and the subsidy. On the same date, the federal government also updated its backgrounder describing the CEWS, reflecting the final form of the legislation.
Additional Details of Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy and Enhanced Summer Jobs Program Released
After making its initial announcement about the significantly expanded Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) program, the federal government announced on April 8, 2020, that it is introducing additional flexibility to the CEWS, and provided additional details about how the program will operate.
Ontario Orders More Business Closures in Light of COVID-19 Pandemic; Clarifies Obligations of Businesses that Remain Open
On April 3, 2020, the Ontario government announced that more businesses must close because they are no longer considered essential in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. These businesses must close effective tomorrow, Saturday April 4, 2020 at 11:59 p.m.
Overview of Status and Availability of Ontario Courts in Light of Pandemic
Here you will find an update regarding the current status and availability of Ontario Courts in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. This information is current as of April 2, 2020.
COVID-19 – Continuity of Pension Plan Administration and Related Regulatory Flexibility
During these uncertain times, pension plan administrators must continue to administer their pension plans and provide benefits to members, former members and retired members. Employers and pension plan administrators face a number of upcoming filing and disclosure deadlines and may have challenges in meeting those deadlines as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Federal Government Releases Further Details for COVID-19 Economic Relief
On April 1, 2020, the federal government provided important additional information about the previously announced expanded wage subsidy program and the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB).
Nadine Zacks Quoted in Canadian Lawyer Magazine on In-House Counsel Adapting to COVID-19 Operational Changes
With numerous businesses closing or modifying operations to curb the rapid spread of COVID-19, legal departments are facing a host of new challenges. Organizations are struggling to continue serving customers and support employees, many of whom are now working remotely.