Your resource for current news, policies and updates to stay informed during the global pandemic.

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Severance-Pay Law Pushed Back Due to COVID-19

New Jersey's law requiring large companies to pay their workers severance whenever there is a mass layoff has been delayed until 90 days after New Jersey’s state of emergency has been lifted. The state was to become the first to implement such a policy this coming July when the law was to take effect, but the coronavirus pandemic has put extra strain on employers, leading to concerns about the liability of paying out severance packages on top of the economic fallout.

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Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Payments Have Begun

The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development began making payments Friday to the self-employed, independent contractors and others who are not usually eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. The federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) is a new program authorized by Congress as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. 

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Remote Notary Services Temporarily Allowed

New Jersey is now one of more than 40 states to allow notaries and authorized officials to execute remote notarial acts during the current public health emergency. There are still requirements that must still be met, such as "satisfactory evidence" of identity for the persons involved, but the law is designed to remove the major barriers that arose as offices and businesses shut down based on CDC and federal government guideliness.

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State Parks Are Now Open

The Governor re-opened state parks along with golf courses late last week, leaving it open to local county governments to determine if it's best to open up or keep them closed. The approach brings New Jersey in line with neighboring states, with the hope that it will discourage residents from crossing state lines for recreation. The order does not come without restrictions, however, such as prohibiting picnics and contact sports. 

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