COVID-19
Federal Relief Bill – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said this week that he believes there will be a fifth coronavirus relief bill. Republican leadership had been less committal in the past and his comments indicate another bill is likely prior to Election Day.
SBA Loan Program Update – The Trump Administration released data this week detailing the companies that received Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, setting off a flurry of press coverage related to recipients. Most of the attention focused on companies with connections to the administration and/or members of Congress. A number of restaurant companies, as well as franchisees, received funds and some franchisees are under investigation for fraudulent spending. Expect continued scrutiny of the program. The Senate is also considering a new, additional PPP program that may be more narrowly targeted toward small businesses (fewer than 300 employees) and that can document economic harm.
Reopenings / Closings – As infections spike, some regions are beginning to reimpose capacity mandates and limits on dining. Most spikes are in the sunbelt. California, New Mexico, Arizona and Florida (among others) took steps this week to reimpose restrictions.
Liability – North Carolina became the most recent state to enact legislation providing liability protection to businesses that take reasonable steps to reduce transmission risks of COVID-19.
Starbucks – The coffee chain announced that it will require all customers to wear face coverings in company-owned stores beginning July 15. Other companies have enacted similar policies; however, Starbucks is the first major restaurant chain to embrace a national policy.
Healthy Hospitality Ordinances – San Francisco became the first city to enact a Healthy Building Ordinance mandating enhanced cleaning procedures in hotels and commercial buildings. Business groups accused unions of using the measure to artificially and unnecessarily inflate hours for its members. Phoenix considered a similar Healthy Hospitality Ordinance that additionally included a right to reemployment and a paid leave mandate. The city delayed action on the measure due to business community opposition. Expect more cities to consider similar ordinances with potential inclusion of other retail outlets (grocery, restaurant, etc.).
Paid Leave
Santa Rosa, CA – The city council unanimously approved a proposal to mandate employers provide 80 hours of paid sick leave to workers affected by the coronavirus pandemic.To Access Align's Analysis: Log In or Subscribe
Labor Policy
Federal – The Trump Administration released its Spring 2020 Regulatory Agenda, a preview of the issues it plans to tackle in the coming months.To Access Align's Analysis: Log In or Subscribe
Labor Activism
Fight for $15 / Black Lives Matter – Thousands of fast-food workers along with healthcare and gig economy employees are expected to participate in a national walkout July 20. The protest, called the Strike for Black Lives, is being organized by a coalition of labor unions and social advocacy organizations and will include marches in numerous cities.To Access Align's Analysis: Log In or Subscribe
Delivery
Berkeley, CA – The city council unanimously passed an ordinance temporarily setting a 15 percent limit on delivery fees, capping other fees at 5 percent and prohibiting apps from reducing tips for food delivery drivers.To Access Align's Analysis: Log In or Subscribe
Portland, OR – The city council enacted an ordinance capping third-party delivery fees at 10 percent. The temporary provision lasts only until 90 days after the pandemic emergency is lifted.To Access Align's Analysis: Log In or Subscribe