Exploring the Differences Between “Furlough” and “Layoff” During COVID-19 Pandemic

The Coronavirus pandemic has impacted virtually every facet of the U.S. economy. Over 22 million Americans are currently unemployed. While COVID-19 is the common cause of unemployment for millions of people, the challenges they face may depend on whether they were furloughed or laid off by their employer.

WKBW 7 Eyewitness News recently aired a report on unemployment issues during the COVID-19 crisis and specifically explored the differences between a furlough and a layoff. Labor and Employment attorney Robert L. Boreanaz was interviewed by WKBW reporter Gilat Melamed for the story.

During his interview with WKBW, Mr. Boreanaz provided answers to a number questions, including:

  1.  What will happen to unemployed workers as businesses that closed due to COVID-19 begin to reopen?
  2.  What is the difference between an employee who has been furloughed versus an employee who as been laid off?
  3.  What is the first step all unemployed workers should take?
  4.  Why do some businesses elect to furlough employees while others layoff employees?

Click on the video below to watch WKBW‘s full report, which includes the interview with Mr. Boreanaz. For any additional questions on labor and employment matters, contact Robert Boreanaz at 716 849 1333, ext. 343 or via e-mail at rboreanaz@lglaw.com.