Coronavirus Update: Ohio Asks Businesses To Report Employees Who Don't Return To Work

Business owners and employers in the state of Ohio may now report employees who don't come in to work as more non-essential companies reopen the economy Monday.

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) specifically set up a website where employers may fill out their report, which could potentially affect the workers' unemployment benefits.

"If you have employees who refuse to return to work or quit work, it’s important that you let the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) know so we can make accurate eligibility determinations," the ODJFS also sent out in an email to employers.

According to reports, the ODJFS assumed if the employees' place of work has resumed operations, this means their jobs are available again; thus, they shouldn't be filing for unemployment claims.

ODJFS director Kimberly Hall told the press in a video conference call Monday employers have to be clear to their workers about safety measures to protect the staff. If the worker still won't report for work, the ODJFS will conduct a review before the employee could receive the benefits.

"We’ve always had an administrative review process," the director said. "It basically hinges on whether there’s a good-cause reason for that refusal to return to work.”

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine lifted some of the state's restrictions Friday, beginning with the resumption of elective health care procedures, including dental and veterinary services.

On Monday, manufacturing, distribution and construction companies have also reopened with employers expected to conduct daily health checks of the workers, daily sanitation and cleaning, as well as strict enforcement of face covering and social distancing.

Companies with an office or corporate set-up were also given the go signal to open Monday but a remote or work-at-home arrangement is still highly encouraged. By May 12, Ohio will be reopening retail and commercial stores, but workers and customers alike will be expected to don face masks and practice social distancing.

The state's "Stay Safe Ohio" order was extended by the Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Amy Acton until May 29, which effectively still puts some limitations in place. A gathering of more than 10 people is still not allowed in Ohio, while restaurants, bars, grooming and personal care services, gyms, recreation and sports facilities, casinos and playgrounds remain closed until further notice.