Before I talk about some developments, I wanted to share a story about David Lat – the founder of the Above The Law blog. He remains hospitalized in serious condition according to a report, still fighting COVID-19 and battling for his life.  (Saturday Update: He’s out of ICU!) He’s just 44 years old with a 2 year old son.

I had one of my first encounters with the Above the Law blog way back in December 2007.  It was, frankly, exciting that my little employment law blog that I had just started a few months prior — got a shoutout.  My traffic spiked and I felt strangely validated.  I had other cites too over the years – and David couldn’t be more kind about it.

Since that time, our paths have crossed multiple times. Five years ago, I had the opportunity to do a panel discussion with David on technology and the law. And he was as kind in person as you would hope. He had taken a train from NY to attend and shared his stories.  It was a blast.

I’ve spoken with many of you over the last week and everyone has been impacted.  But I wanted to share this personal story among many to highlight just how devastating this pandemic is.  There will, unfortunately, be many more stories like this.

So as we wrap up another long week, here are some thoughts:

• My colleagues and I have done a deeper dive into the second batch of guidance from the U.S. Department of Labor that I touched on this morning. You can find the full guidance from us here.
• Employers need to still print out the notice from the DOL on the FFCRA by April 1, 2020. You can download the notice here; it should go up where we have the other ones.
• On Tuesday, March 31, my colleagues and I will be putting on a special video webinar on COVID-19. Rather than recap every law, we are going to spend most of our time, talking about the practical issues that keep arising and answering questions that people have.  I hope you can join us.  It’s free and will take place at noon. 
• The CARES Act passed this afternoon.  To be perfectly candid, I’ve been so busy that I haven’t done a deep dive into all the employment law provisions yet, but I’ve already seen one good recap; I’m sure there will be others over the weekend.
• And finally, for something different, one of my favorite musicals — Dear Evan Hansen — reposted this video of a community singing “You Will Be Found” from various people in their houses.  As we are all abiding by the Stay at Home orders, it seemed particularly apt.  I know from the dozens of calls I’ve had over the last few weeks how many of you are struggling, both to manage the crisis at work and keep your family safe at home. If you or your business are struggling, just reach out.

Even when the dark comes crashing through
When you need a friend to carry you
And when you’re broken on the ground
You will be found.