The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services has announced a new program to aid workers who were exposed to COVID-19.
Created with $30 million from the federal government, the COVID-19 Temporary Paid Leave Program was designed to help those working in Oregon who need to quarantine or isolate due to exposure to the virus, but who do not have access to COVID-19-related paid sick leave.
In order to qualify, a person must meet a slew of requirements that include working in Oregon, being directed to quarantine by a public health authority or health care provider, and not receiving COVID-19-related paid sick leave, among many others.
For a full list of eligibility requirements, you can visit the Oregon.gov website. DCBS and the Department of Revenue are working together to ensure workers meet the extensive eligibility requirements. Workers can visit the website to take an eligibility quiz to help determine if they qualify.
Workers can apply online here. The application form is available in three languages: English, Spanish and Russian. Those who do not have internet access can call 833-685-0850 toll free, or 503-947-0130 locally. There is also assistance available for those needing help in a language that is not provided at 503-947-0131.
Due to limited funds, the program will only be available to those whose quarantine periods were in place on or after Wednesday, Sept. 16. Workers can only apply for one quarantine period.
For questions about the program or to apply, employees can go to Oregon.gov/covidpaidleave or call the above numbers Monday through Friday between 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Kyra Blank
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