Congressman Scott Peters

Representing the 52nd District of California

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An Important Message for Parents and Families

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August 25, 2020

Dear Friend,

School closures and the challenges of online distance learning due to COVID-19 have taken a toll on parents and families. A recent look inside the lives of two San Diego working parents  represents the current experience of millions of American families. For many working parents, the COVID-19 crisis has made them choose between caring for their children and their paycheck.

I'm sending this special edition of my newsletter to inform parents and families of a critical lifeline that may be available to them during this time if their employer is covered by this law.

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act

A temporary, emergency family leave program created by Congress in March

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The Families First Act guarantees that parents and guardians of school-aged children who work full-time can take up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave at two-thirds of their regular pay, capped at $200 a day, if local schools and day cares are closed or unavailable due to the pandemic.The rules generally apply to businesses with 50 to 500 employees (some exemptions apply).

The 12 weeks of leave include two weeks of unpaid leave, followed by 10 weeks of paid leave. Eligible employees may elect or be required to overlap the initial two weeks of unpaid leave with two weeks of other paid leave they have available.

Part-time employees are eligible for leave for the number of hours they are normally scheduled to work over that period. For additional information and answers to frequently asked questions, click here.

Please talk to your employer if you believe you and your employer are covered by this law. This emergency-leave program expires on December 31st.

I understand how this major disruption to our lives has caused tremendous uncertainty and stress for many families. Please know that my staff is prepared to help and answer any questions. The district office can be reached at 858-455-5550.

Sincerely,