The Employee Protections in Connection with COVID-19 Emergency Health Order law requires employers to follow public health orders. It also prohibits them from retaliating against employees who exercise their rights under the law.

If an employee notifies their employer of an unsafe working condition that they believe is a violation of a COVID-19 public health order, the employee is protected from retaliation if they report a violation or refuse to come to work (with certain limitations). Learn more about how to report a COVID-19 protection from retaliation violation.

In addition to the above law, there are new protections for certain airport, hotel, and event employees.

Under Philadelphia’s Travel and Hospitality Worker Recall and Retention law, employers must notify and offer eligible Philadelphia airport, hotel, and event center workers who were separated from employment each job position when it becomes available based on qualifications and seniority. The law applies starting January 7, 2021 until December 31, 2025.

Starting January 7, 2021, when Philadelphia hotels change in ownership or control, covered employers must provide notice to eligible employees and retain eligible employees for six months, all under certain terms and conditions.

Employers can contact the Office of Worker Protections at the Department of Labor for compliance assistance. For more information, email COVID19WorkplaceProtections@phila.gov or call (215) 686-0802.