Published Date: 2021-01-13

COVID-19 related ATO expired 12/31/20

What options do I have

As you may already know, the COVID-19 related leave provisions afforded to employees through the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) expired December 31, 2020. Although California moved to exempt Psych Techs and other essential healthcare personnel from the leave benefit, CAPT was successful in convincing the state to deliver an alternative extended paid leave benefit in the form of Administrative Time Off for BU 18 employees. As a result, Psych Techs were eligible to receive up to 14 calendar days of ATO if they could not work due to a COVID-19 related quarantine. The leave program’s duration was tied to the expiration of the FFCRA and is, therefore, no longer active. Neither CalHR nor the Governor’s Office has offered to extend the program.

CAPT has learned through our leave specialist’s diligent work, Tessa Hannula, that the departments have since approved some members’ ATO applications. This suggests the departments may be utilizing some discretion on a case-by-case basis to approve ATO.

Given this information, CAPT encourages you to apply for ATO for your COVID-19 related illness/quarantine. If your ATO is denied, you may still apply for workers’ compensation if your illness was contracted as a result of your work. In any case, CAPT encourages members to utilize CAPT for assistance in any COVID-19 related matter. Contact your local chapter or Tessa directly by email at tessa.fmla@yahoo.com.

January 13, 2021 | Download Flier