Letter to Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott from Business Manager, Michael Sabitoni
Letter sent to Governor of RI regarding COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout
A Message from Armand E. Sabitoni, LIUNA General Secretary-Treasurer & New England Regional Manager
A Message from Michael F. Sabitoni, Business Manager
Brothers and Sisters:
The Covid-19 crisis in our country has affected all of us deeply and profoundly. At a time like this, I felt it important for you to know that the Rhode Island Laborers’ District Council is on the job, working on your behalf to do whatever we can to help our members and their families get through this difficult time. The health and safety of our members is a top priority whether you are on the job working in essential services or quarantining at home.
In light of the many federal and state legislative actions and directives, as well as the many questions we have received here in the office, we have put together a list of information for you to quickly access important resources.
For over one hundred years the members of our union, The Laborers’ International Union of North America have counted on one another to help them through life-altering challenges.
While the Covid-19 crisis is certainly an epic challenge, I am certain that we can get through the days ahead if we stand together as one union.
Fraternally yours,
Michael F. Sabitoni, Business Manager
COVID-19
Covid-19 is a disease caused by the corona virus that is spreading throughout the United States. It has been officially deemed a pandemic. It is a respiratory virus and is contagious and potentially fatal. It is believed to be spread from person to person by coughing and sneezing. Governor Raimondo has declared a state of emergency in Rhode Island because of the spread of Covid-19.
Symptoms and Testing
Symptoms
Mild to severe respiratory illness
Fever
Cough
Shortness of breath
Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure (based on the incubation period of MERS-CoV viruses). Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases.
If you develop these emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately.
Emergency warning signs include*:
Trouble breathing
Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
New confusion or inability to arouse
Bluish lips or face
*This list is not all inclusive. (others have experienced nausea, vomiting and diarrhea) Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.
Testing:
Testing is now more widely available in RI. for more information you can call your primary doctor or:
RI Department of Health Covid-19 Info line
Phone: 401-222-8022 Every day (weekends included) 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM After hours: Call 211
Email: RIDOH.COVID19Questions
See also: For more information HealthRI.gov ; CDC.gov or Testing CVS.com
Social Distancing and What You Can Do
Social distancing is the recommended way for Rhode Islanders to protect themselves and others from catching or spreading Covid-19. Do not leave home unless getting gas, food, medicine or you must go to work. For more information click here…
If you are Laid Off, Furloughed or Cannot Work
Congress has passed two major pieces of legislation to address the coronavirus crisis: The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA”) and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”). Both laws are intended to provide relief to employers and employees affected by the current crisis.
The CARES Act created a heavy incentive for every state to (1) expand access to unemployment insurance (UI) benefits; (2) increase the amount of UI payments; (3) extend the duration of UI benefits; and (4) eliminate waiting periods.
The FFCRA created paid sick leave for employers with less than 500 employees. It is available to all employees, regardless of length of tenure with the employer. The employer would be required to cover 80 hours (full-time employees) or the average of a part-time worker’s hours over a 2-week period. If the Employee is subject to: a public COVID-19-related quarantine or isolation order or a Health care provider has advised employee to self-quarantine.
For information on how this legislation affects unemployment benefits and sick leave click here.
For Information on How to apply for Unemployment at the RI Department of Labor and Training click here
