When most Minnesota residents get an idea, they want to start working on it right away. In particular, if a person believes that the time has come to start a business, he or she may want to jump into the process as quickly as possible. If a person is of older age, he or she may feel like there is no time to waste in getting the business started, but slowing down may be a better route to consider.
The CARES Act--Paycheck Protection Program
The Paycheck Protection Program is a significant piece of the recently-passed Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the "CARES Act"). It is designed to help nonprofit and for‑profit businesses with less than 500 employees cover payroll and other expenses.
Employers Required Posting
The Department of Labor's Families First Coronavirus Response Act has recently released a poster. The poster must be posted by April 1, 2020 by all Employers of 500 or less employees. You can find the poster at this link: https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/WHD/posters/FFCRA_Poster_WH1422_Non-Federal.pdf
Employers Required Posting
The Department of Labor's Families First Coronavirus Response Act has recently released a poster. The poster must be posted by April 1, 2020 by all Employers of 500 or less employees. You can find the poster at this link: https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/WHD/posters/FFCRA_Poster_WH1422_Non-Federal.pdf
Minnesota Workers Exempt from Gov. Tim Walz's Stay-at-Home Directive
Gov. Tim Walz issued Executive Order 20-20 directing Minnesotans to stay at their homes and limit activities outside their homes to essential needs. The directive is effective from March 27, 2020, at 11:59 p.m. to April 10, 2020, at 5 p.m.
What does Stay at Home Mean for Your Parenting Time Order
There are a lot of questions about parenting time and the directive for Minnesotans to stay home because of COVID-19. Minnesota Governor Waltz's Emergency Executive Order dated March 25, 2020 is clear that parenting time should continue as court ordered. Families can of course make other agreed upon arrangements for exchanging their children. Continue using social distancing when exchanging your children. If a family member is ill in one household speak with the other parent to make different arrangements that does not put the child at risk. Take this opportunity to co-parent and model for your children that both parents are on the same page about the child's well-being during these challenging times.
The Impact of a Peacetime Emergency on Family Court Hearings
The Governor declared a peacetime emergency on March 13, 2020, which placed restrictions on public activities because of the Coronavirus. This declaration impacted the Court system. As a result, we are receiving questions from clients in family law about their scheduled court hearings and mediations. There have been two orders in the last week from the Court that impact family law matters in the court system.
Parents may worry about sibling conflict when estate planning
Having children can be the biggest joy of many Minnesota residents' lives. Of course, siblings do not always get along, and it can often be difficult for parents to make decisions that will be good for everyone. As a result, some parents may struggle with estate planning.
Managing Parenting Time with COVID-19
If you abide by a court-ordered parenting time schedule, you may be wondering what impact the recent COVID-19 virus outbreak or a potential government-mandated lockdown will have on your normal parenting time schedule. Keep in mind that, given this unprecedented situation, there has not been time for judges to issue much guidance. However, here are some general guidelines to follow:
New Resource for Small Businesses
Minnesota small businesses are now eligible for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security: New I-9 Guidance Issued
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that it will defer the requirements for employers to review Form I-9 documents in-person with new employees. The change applies to employers and workplaces that are operating completely remotely.
UPDATE ON THE FAMILIES FIRST ACT
On Wednesday, March 18th, Congress passed and the President signed into law the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. The final law included some changes from the original house bill. Here is an overview of the changes to the two sections of the bill related to employee leave rights (Family Medical Leave and Emergency Paid Sick Leave):
Estate Planning and Coronavirus
The unprecedented issues we are facing together as a community give us all an unforeseen opportunity to focus on our personal wellbeing, and the wellbeing of our individual families. This focus should include a review of your current estate planning documents. Are your basic needs covered?
Unpacking the New Families First Coronavirus Relief Act (FFCRA)
On Saturday the US House of Representatives passed HR 6201 - the Families First Coronavirus Relief Act. The bill includes several measures to provide for federally-mandated emergency leave and sick pay for all employees of US businesses. It is anticipated the bill (or a very similar version) will be passed in the Senate this week, and President Trump has indicated strong support for the emergency measures provided in the legislation. Below are some of the most-asked questions by business owners and employers regarding the provisions relating to paid family medical leave and paid sick leave, and our answers:
Including power of attorney documents when estate planning
Though most Minnesota residents would like to be in charge of their personal affairs, there may come a time in life when they cannot make important decisions. Luckily, individuals can use estate planning to better ensure that someone they trust is in line to make important decisions on their behalf when they cannot. A power of attorney document can help.
Dunlap & Seeger remains open and committed to serving our clients.
There is no doubt that by now you've been inundated with numerous emails from businesses describing plans during this unprecedented coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Dunlap & Seeger remains open and committed to serving our clients. Like you, we are closely monitoring the recommendations from local, state, and federal government agencies. Consistent with the recommendations of our community health leaders, we are using best efforts to protect our valued clients and employees from exposure to the virus, both in and out of our office. Rest assured we are equipped and stand able to seamlessly meet clients' needs in person (as necessary) or remotely.
Considering management teams during business formation is wise
Even if Minnesota residents do not plan on starting a partnership, they likely still need help when it comes to business success. Business formation is difficult under most circumstances, and if individuals want to grow and potentially have a greater chance at success, they may want to consider creating a team from the outset. As time goes on, the team can help address various business matters.
Estate planning can help with charitable giving
Being generous is often seen as a virtue. Many people in Minnesota and across the country enjoy giving to those in need and finding ways to help the less fortunate whenever and however they can. It is common for individuals to want to leave certain assets to charity after their passing, and estate planning can help do that.
