Sacramento, CA — Governor Gavin Newsom has taken a big step to protect food workers affected by COVID-19. He signed an Executive Order that guarantees financial support for grocery store employees, farm workers, delivery drivers, and fast food staff.
If these essential workers become ill with COVID-19 or need to quarantine, they’ll receive a supplemental check for two weeks of sick pay from the state. This initiative aims to relieve the stress of missing a paycheck when illness strikes.
Recent data showed that 51 workers tested positive for COVID-19 at a Safeway distribution center in Tracy, highlighting the urgency of this matter. Governor Newsom emphasized that these workers are crucial to keeping food supplies running smoothly and need the ability to take time off without financial worries.
The new state program complements federal efforts, which already offer similar benefits to smaller employers. This means that even larger companies now have a safety net for their employees.
Beyond financial support, the Executive Order also sets health and safety measures. It allows food workers to wash their hands every 30 minutes or whenever necessary, promoting better sanitation practices. According to a survey by the CDC, maintaining hygiene in food facilities is essential to curb the virus’s spread and protect both workers and customers.
Overall, this initiative not only addresses immediate financial concerns but also aims to enhance safety protocols in the food industry. As workers express gratitude on social media, the importance of ensuring their health and well-being during these challenging times resonates widely.
This move strengthens California’s commitment to supporting essential workers, a sentiment echoed by experts who believe that adequate support systems are vital for public health and safety. In a recent study, 70% of Americans said they feel more positively about companies prioritizing employee welfare during the pandemic.
For further details, you can visit the California Governor’s Office for the full breakdown of these measures. Ensuring the health and financial security of food workers is more than policy; it’s a responsibility we all share.
