Covid-19Safety

April 30, 2020

Is my employer required to provide me with reasonable accommodations related to the Coronavirus?

If you have a compromised immune system or another medical condition impacted by COVID-19 (including mental health conditions like anxiety disorders), your employer may be required to provide you with a reasonable accommodation like telecommuting or protective equipment, unless doing so would cause the employer an undue hardship.   Common cold or seasonal flu symptoms are…

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Covid-19Worker Rights

April 30, 2020

Because of the coronavirus pandemic, my employer made assumptions about me or treated me differently than coworkers because I am Asian or from another country. What can I do?

An employer who treats you worse than other workers because of your race, national origin, or ethnic background is violating the law. This includes employer actions that single you out because of negative stereotypes.  Please see pages 19 and 21 of the Southern Maine Workers’ Center’s WORK Manual for more information on race or national…

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Covid-19Worker Rights

April 30, 2020

Due to coronavirus, my employer has cut my hours, forced me to take unpaid leave, or ended my employment. What can I do?

You may be eligible for unemployment benefits while you are out of work.  In general, you may apply for unemployment benefits if you worked for an employer and made at least $5,150 during the last year.   The Maine Legislature passed a law to expand unemployment benefits to workers affected by the COVID-19 virus. That legislation…

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NewsCovid-19

March 16, 2020

Important Information for Workers Contacting Us about COVID-19 Related Issues

Thank you so much for contacting us about your problem at work. You’ve bravely taken the first step to get the support and answers you need. We are always here to provide services and resources, but due to COVID-19 some of our options have changed. Changes to the Hotline & Legal Clinic Services in Response…

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StatementsPaid Sick Time

May 8, 2019

Portland City Council Plays Politics With 9,000 Workers’ Health

May 8th, 2019 Statement of the Southern Maine Workers’ Center On Monday, the Portland City Council voted 5-4 to reject an ordinance that would have guaranteed earned paid sick days for all Portland workers, regardless of whether they’re part-time, temporary, per diem, or seasonal. City Councilors Spencer Thibodeau (who is running for mayor), Justin Costa…

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