Hayward Law, PLLC

08/13/2021

Do I have to get the COVID-19 vaccine to keep my job?

Washington is an "at-will" state which means that the average employee can quit for any reason or none at all and an employer can fire you for any reason or none at all. If an employer mandates the COVID-19 vaccinations you can always choose to quit your job, but they can fire you for not getting the vaccine. Legally, employers garner tremendous control over employees and the work environment. If you quit or are fired over this issue you may not receive unemployment benefits. There are a few exceptions: Religious objections and medical exemptions. I am not aware of a religion that objects to vaccines and the medical issues would usually need to relate to issues with prior vaccines. If you think you have exemptions you should seek legal advice. For more reading review eeoc.org and "at-will" employment.

09/06/2020

The off-centered "H" was bothering me!

06/29/2020

There is a lawsuit against Washington's Employment Security Department ("ESD" administers unemployment benefits). The key issue in the lawsuit is that many people were receiving benefits, but then were mysteriously cut off without notice. If this happened to you please contact me or the Unemployment Law Project ("ULP") so we can add your name to the case. If you are struggling with another issue, we can still try to offer helpful advice.

Going back to work?
Remember, if you go back to work and will be receiving payment for your hours, you must notify the ESD. If you fail to do so, you may be subject to fraud penalties.

03/25/2020

COVID-19 - Fraudulent Testing Kits

The FDA has discovered fraudulent "testing kits" have hit consumer markets. These testing kits have been created to profit off the fear of the populace. Be wary of such an offers. Be diligent in your research and report any suspicious activity to protect your community.

Email to:
[email protected].

Press Release:
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-fda-alerts-consumers-about-unauthorized-fraudulent-covid-19-test-kits.

FDA alerts Consumers about Unauthorized Fraudulent COVID-19 Test Kits.

03/25/2020

COVID-19 - Public Benefits

Washington State and the federal government have taken steps to improve access to public benefits. In these trying times, people are quickly facing financial hardships. It's important to know what resources are available to you and your family. Attached is a document describing the changes to common public benefits. Unemployment insurance will likely be the first line of defense during this pandemic. Many individuals have already been laid off because of the lock downs. The Employment Security Department, who administer unemployment benefits, is already overloaded. Make sure to review your rights to unemployment and file as quickly as possible. There will be delays, but try to be patient.

Please let me know if you have any questions about unemployment insurance.

FREQUENTLY USED LINKS About the agency News releases Jobs with Employment Security Governors Committee on Disability Issues and Employment (GCDE)

02/08/2020

We are now offering advice and representation for unemployment hearings. Please contact us if you are facing unemployment.

09/11/2019

08/19/2019

09/16/2018