FFCRA Leave and Summer Camp Program Closures

In Field Assistance Bulletin No. 2020-4, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has issued guidance regarding whether the closure of summer camps and other summer programs for children would allow an eligible employee to take leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA).

The FFCRA allows eligible employees to take paid leave if they are unable to work or telecommute because their child’s place of care is closed owing to COVID-19.  The DOL has confirmed that a place of care includes summer camps and other summer programs.  Employees may be entitled to this leave even if they had not yet enrolled their children or applied for enrollment because many camps and programs closed in response to COVID-19 before the enrollment process began.

Employees requesting such leave must provide their employers with information to qualify for the leave, including proof of actual enrollment in the summer camp or program.  Alternatively, proof that the employee’s child attended the camp or program in preceding years and remains eligible may suffice, as will evidence of placement on a waitlist pending the reopening of the camp or program.

If you have questions about leave under the FFCRA, call ASR Health Benefits at (616) 957-1751 or (800) 968-2449.