As Illinois restaurants endure unprecedented times beginning on March 17 by offering carry-out and/or delivery only service as ordered by Governor Pritzker. State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) is encouraging restaurant owners to keep all profit/loss statements just in case the state or federal government provides stimulus funding. Meier also wants employees to know that if they are laid off due to coronavirus (COVID-19) closures – unemployment assistance is available.
According to State Representative Charlie Meier, “I want to encourage all restaurant owners to keep their receipts just in case the state or federal government ends up providing stimulus funding to make up for their loss during the ‘no dine-in policy’ implemented by Governor Pritzker. This temporary policy unfortunately to hurt our local restaurants bottom line and we must do everything we can to help. I also want to encourage people to support their local restaurant by ordering delivery and or carry-out if and when it’s available.”
The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on March 11 they are taking additional steps to support workers and families impacted by COVID-19. The administration said they will file emergency rules to clarify that individuals unemployed due to COVID-19 can generally qualify for unemployment benefits to the full extent permitted by federal law.
Employees laid off due to COVID-19 may obtain more information and how to file for unemployment insurance by visiting the following website offered by the Illinois Department of Employment Security: https://www2.illinois.gov/ides/Pages/COVID-19-and-Unemployment-Benefits.aspx.