Brothers and Sisters,
As we continue to navigate COVID-19 together, I want to thank each and every one of you for the part you play in all of this. Some members are still working and others are staying home to support and protect their families. Still others have found many ways to help, support and protect their neighbors and communities. Thank you very much!!
In regards to the latest communications from Governor Inslee, he has extended the “Stay Home Stay Healthy” until May 4, 2020. To see current updates from the Governor’s office, go to https://www.governor.wa.gov.
Local 612 offices will still be open for day to day business, with the exception of walk-in service, to ensure the health and safety of the members, office staff and others. We are canceling both District 1 and District 2 membership meetings for the month of April to stay in compliance with the Governor’s orders. If you have questions or need help, please call the office or a Field Representative.
For the members who are working, make sure you follow the company’s safety/health guidelines, maintain social distancing, and always keep your head on a swivel.
For those of you that are home, enjoy your time with family and stay healthy.
To the members that have lost loved ones or have loved ones sick, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Please continue practicing social distancing and preventative behaviors:
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 30 seconds, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, avoid close contact with people who are sick, clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces, and stay home when you are sick.
For the best sources of information you can refer to the Centers for Disease Control http://www.cdc.gov or the Washington State Health Department www.doh.wa.gov.
Labor and Industries (L&I) has set up a page for workplace safety guidance. https://coronavirus.wa.gov/business-workers/workplace-safety-guidance
Unemployment has also set up additional resources to help answer some questions on filing for the additional benefits. If you are denied standby, there is no need to appeal. They are waiving all SB and waiting weeks. Your claim as a whole was not denied.
Not sure if you are eligible? Click the link below to use the new eligibility checker. https://esdorchardstorage.blob.core.windows.net/esdwa/Default/ESDWAGOV/Unemployment/UIEligibilityChecker.pdf.
They highly recommend you sign up for the COVID-19 alerts at https://esd.wa.gov/newsroom/covid-19 to get the latest changes on how to proceed with denied claims or applying for the additional federal benefits. This is where the most up to date answers will be found as the roll out progresses.
The additional $600 and/or 13 weeks is anticipated to be implemented on Saturday, April 18th and will be back dated to day of separation due to COVID-19, as far back as March 29th. Your first check will have the retro pay.
Remember to sign up on our website http://www.iuoelocal612.org for email blasts on current COVID-19 information, as well as normal Local 612 communications to the membership. These new links will be added to the link tab on our website.
Thank you for all you are doing to remain safe, keeping your families, friends and neighbors safe, and supporting your colleagues, communities and Companies!! Let’s all do our part during these unfortunate times!
IUOE Local 612 Strong!
In Solidarity,
Todd J. Mickelson
Business Manager
