Ohio to Use CARES Funding for Employer Layoff Aversion Benefits

Ohio employers will not be charged for layoff aversion benefits paid to employees as a result of an Executive Order issued last week by Governor DeWine. The order enables the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) to draw down federal funding authorized under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act for the purpose of paying SharedWork Ohio compensation through the end of this year.

SharedWork Ohio is the state’s layoff aversion program that allows workers to remain employed and employers to retain trained staff during times of reduced business activity. As a part of the program, participating employers agree to reduce the affected employees’ hours, between 10% and 50%, for up to 52 weeks. In return, those employees receive SharedWork compensation (which is a prorated unemployment benefit).

Participating employers may receive retroactive credits for any SharedWork Ohio bills paid dating back to March 29. 7/9/2020