Covid and the Workplace: How Does the Law Protect "Essential" Employees?
Part of the UB Law in Focus Discussion Series
Terms like “essential” and “front-line” have become familiar during the COVID-19 pandemic. Workers in healthcare, the food supply chain, delivery services and transportation are at increased risk of infection just by going to work each day.
Efforts have been made at all levels of government to protect workers from infection and to support those who become ill. How effective have these efforts been? What does the law require of employers when it comes to protecting and assisting workers exposed to and infected by COVID-19? Whistleblowers have already pointed out gaps and problems. Does this mean employers are not doing enough? What are thoughtful employers doing?
On July 29, these issues were discussed by UBalt Law Prof. Nancy Modesitt , an expert on employment law and whistleblower law; Donna Glover, J.D. ’06 , an employment lawyer and shareholder at Baker Donelson; Taren Butcher, J.D. ’07 , assistant general counsel at the Allegis Group; and Jessica Chu , chief of staff and special counsel at the Amalgamated Transit Union. UBalt Law Prof. Michael Hayes , an expert on employment and labor law, moderated the discussion.
Future Events
To recommend a topic idea or to express your interest to serve as a panelist for a future event, contact Jason Keller at jkeller@ubalt.edu.
Nancy Modesitt
Professor of Law
Donna Glover, J.D. '06
Employment Lawyer and Shareholder at Baker Donelson
Taren Butcher, J.D. '07
Assistant General Counsel at Allegis Group
Jessica Chu
Chief of Staff and Special Counsel at the Amalgamated Transit Union
Michael Hayes
Associate Professor of Law