Vermont: Expanded COVID-19 Hazard Pay for Certain Industries

Governor Scott authorized a second round of funding for the Vermont Frontline Employees Hazard Pay Grant Program which allows qualified employers to apply for benefits to give to their employees. Hazard pay is available to certain public safety, public health, health care, and human services employers whose employees are engaged in activities substantially dedicated to mitigating or responding to the COVID-19 public health emergency during the eligible period.

S.352 expands benefits to temporary homeless housing providers who have agreements with Department of Children and Families to do so, traveling nurse agencies and temporary or contract nursing services of covered employers, cleaning or janitorial service providers to covered employees, and food service providers of patients or residents of covered employers.

Additionally, employers must identify potentially eligible former employees and report them to the state so they can be notified of potential benefits. Employers have been able to apply for funding since October 28, 2020. Employers should review updated eligibility requirements to determine if benefits are available.

Action Items