Tocci & Lee LLC has been in frequent communications with key Massachusetts Legislators regarding the impact of coronavirus related measures on Massachusetts employers and employees.  Employers should be aware that Massachusetts has initiated the attached emergency regulations allowing furloughed “stand by” employees to collect unemployment benefits.  As T&L recently advised clients, any furlough should set a definite return date (subject to change).  If no return date is reported, the Department of Unemployment Assistance will assume a four-week “standby” status.  Furlough is an alternative to layoff that many employers who can afford to maintain employee benefits during this crisis are turning to.  Under a furlough arrangement, an employee remains “employed” but will not work.  In order to collect unemployment benefits, the employee must remain “available to work for her or his employer.” 

430-CMR_22.00_COVID-19_Emergency-Unemployment-Regulations.pdf