Nakase Law: 7 Million Workers Are Jobless Due To Covid-19 Shutdow

Georgetown DC

14 August, 2020

11:19 AM

Description

Government officials reported last week that the number of jobless Californians has decreased compared to the previous week. However, the numbers are still astronomical. Last week approximately 249,000 workers in California filed for unemployment benefits for the first time. The previous week was 289,600, so while it was a decrease, we are still a long way off celebrating. It is estimated that since the start of the coronavirus pandemic and the stay at home orders in early March, 7 million workers have filed for unemployment benefits for the first time. This is due to companies cutting costs because of the government-mandated shut down. However, many of these people seeking assistance in the form of unemployment benefits have found the EDD’s resources to be lacking, according to California Nakase car accident lawyers and employment attorneys. There have been complaints about glitchy websites and inundated phone lines slowing the process down. Governor Gavin Newsom has revealed plans to tackle these issues and allow people to receive the benefits they desperately need. Between the 14th of March and the 25th of July, 7.01 million Californians have filed first-time claims for unemployment benefits. The EDD is processing as many claims as possible, starting with the oldest first, but their systems and resources are not made for such an influx of applications. The current estimate for clearing the backlog is September, leaving people without any income for months. Many Californians have been out of work for months already without any income and are struggling with a lack of financial relief. They have implored state lawmakers to pressure the EDD into coming up with a solution to rescue residents from impending poverty. Many Californian lawmakers have expressed that they have been asking the EDD to propose a solution for months but have had little luck. The system is unprepared for the volume of claims, and the people of California are bearing the brunt of the consequences. As further restrictions and another lockdown are being considered to combat a second wave, the situation will only get work. Having millions of Californians without an income will mean that businesses are not making profits, and they will have to lay off yet more staff. Telling people who have been waiting for payments since March and April that they will receive money by September is just not good enough. Along with the people who have received nothing since losing their jobs, there are also Californians who received unemployment payments that suddenly stopped as the system became overwhelmed. These people have been unable to contact the EDD through any of the official channels to question the reason for the sudden halt of payments or attempt to rectify the situation. People whose claims are being processed are running into issues with the EDD’s system. There are reports of social security numbers being incorrect, even after multiple attempts to correct it, relocations causing confusion, amongst other things. The EDD is just unable to help people who desperately need a lifeline in these trying times. State lawmakers and local representatives are pushing for a solution, but attempts are futile. This number of 7 million jobless will only continue to rise, and the economy will not recover while this many people are without income.