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Executive Order Relaxes Employer’s Ability to Qualify for Work Share Program and Clarifies Expansions of Unemployment Benefits

April 24, 2020

On Thursday, April 23, 2020, Governor Whitmer issued Executive Order 2020-57. This Executive Order continues the temporary expansion of unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 crisis and further relaxes an employer’s ability to qualify for the Work Share program.

Unemployment for COVID-19 Reasons  

Individuals can qualify for Michigan unemployment benefits if they leave work, are laid-off, or are placed on a temporary unpaid leave for reasons related to COVID-19. Those reasons continue to be that the individual:

The new Executive Order provides some additional clarification for individuals who are seeking unemployment for the above-stated reasons.

Expansion of Work Share Program  

The Executive Order also relaxes the certification requirements so that more employers can qualify for the Work Share Program. Employers who are seeking to have Work Share plans approved by the Unemployment Insurance Agency:

These temporary changes to the Work Share program are effective through the end of the declared states of emergency and disaster.

This is part of our series of COVID-19 alerts providing clients with practical advice on measures they can take to navigate through these troubled times. If you have any questions, please contact your Miller Canfield attorney.

This information is based on the facts and guidance available at the time of publication, and may be subject to change.