As some states begin reopening, yesterday, Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker extended the essential-services emergency order to May 18 and launched a Reopening Advisory Board that will produce a plan by that date. The governor also announced that the Department of Public Health's (DPH) Stay-At-Home Advisory remains in effect, and gatherings of 10 or more people remain prohibited until May 18.   As the state plans for the reopening, so should your business continue to contemplate, plan, and implement what you can for the new way your business may need to operate. We realize that differs for each business, and there are many moving parts to that equation. We will continue to deliver resources that you may find beneficial as you plan.   Following is an update on COVID-19 symptoms and guidance on employer testing as well as key areas to keep in mind as you plan.   Our team is here to help. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

EEOC Updates Employer Guidance on Testing Employees for COVID-19 The EEOC issued new guidance on ADA and COVID-19. Acording to the guidance, a business can legally screen workers for COVID-19 if it is job related and a business necessity since those infected "pose a direct threat to the health of others." The guidance warns that employers must ensure that all tests are "accurate and reliable." Employers should still require employees to practice social distancing and regular hand-washing to prevent transmission of COVID-19 Employers may begin screening employees before they enter the workplace to deterine if they have COVID-19. Test results should be kept confidential. For more information on this and other released guidance, visit the EEOC website.

CDC Expands List of COVID-19 Symptoms The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has expanded its list of coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms to include: Chills Repeated shaking with chills Muscle pain  Headache Sore throat New loss of taste or smell Previously, symptoms were limited to fever, cough, and shortness of breath. The complete list can is on the CDC’s Symptoms of Coronavirus webpage . The CDC notes that the list of symptoms is not all-inclusive and that individuals should consult their medical providers about other symptoms that are severe or concerning. Additional symptoms could be added to the list as more is learned about the virus.   Employer Action Steps Employers should be aware of these additional symptoms as part of their ongoing efforts to reduce transmission among employees and maintain a safe and healthy work environment. They should be sure to have a written communicable disease plan or policy that accounts for any symptoms identified by the CDC.  Employers may also have to revisit their paid leave policies, as these symptoms are used, in part, to determine employee eligibility for paid sick leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). For continual up to date information visit CDC resources.

Designing a Post-coronavirus Workplace The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has changed many aspects of the current workplace, and soon, employers should begin planning for what their post-coronavirus office will look like. Previously, social distancing and COVID-19-related best practices had not been a topic on the mind of most employers or employees. By updating office layouts, encouraging new behaviors and expanding remote work options, employers can help prevent the spread of future diseases, and protect the health and safety of employees. Read more

ADDITIONAL STATE RESOURCES Department of Public Health COVID-19 Guidance and Directives COVID-19 Updates and Information Labor and Workforce Development COVID-19 Unemployment Information Office of Attorney General Frequently Asked Questions About COVID-19: Employee Rights and Employer Obligations For federal resources, review the attached .

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