As with any federal announcement, the devil is in the details and today is no different. The Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce acknowledges that the CERB has been essential during this pandemic but it has also caused some issues for business. We do not have all of the details but the implications for business are higher EI premiums for businesses and the potential permanent changes such as paid sick leave.

Throughout the pandemic the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce and the BC Chamber Network have stressed to government at all levels that the paid sick leave can not be pushed to the employer, especially now when so many small businesses are struggling to survive.

Below are the proposed new programs that will have to pass parliament in September. We will keep you posted on any changes but please send us your stories or thoughts on these and other programs that are in place.

The Canadian Emergency Recovery Benefit (CERB) has been extended for 4 more weeks for a total of 28 weeks, then those that qualify will be transitioned to EI. In addition to that they have added 3 new benefits:

Canada Recovery Caregiver Benefit (CRCB) will provide $500 per week for up to 26 weeks per household, for eligible Canadians unable to work because they must care for:

• a child under age 12 due to the closures of schools or daycares because of COVID-19.
• a family member with a disability or a dependent because their day program or care facility is closed due to COVID-19.
• a child, a family member with a disability, or a dependent who is not attending school, daycare, or other care facilities under the advice of a medical professional due to being at high-risk if they contract COVID-19.

Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) will provide $400 per week for up to 26 weeks to workers who are self-employed or are not eligible for EI and who still require income support and who are available and looking for work. This benefit will support Canadians whose income has dropped or not returned due to COVID-19. The benefit will allow Canadians to earn more income while on claim as well as include links to Job Bank, Canada’s national employment service, with career planning tools for those seeking employment. In addition, the government will be working with provinces and territories to share information to ensure that Canadians have access to tools and training opportunities to successfully return to the workforce.

Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) will provide $500 per week for up to two weeks for workers who are sick or must self-isolate for reasons related to COVID-19.

For further details please go to the official news release here.