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VI Department of Labor Commissioner Gary Molloy said Friday that the coronavirus-related State of Emergency will create hardships for employees across the territory, and therefore D.O.L. is providing information to help workers and employers alike.
Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA)
Mr. Molloy said the current situation does not qualify individuals for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. The DUA program provides assistance to people who have become unemployed as a direct result of a Presidentially declared major disaster. Current benefits are being processed under regular Unemployment Insurance.
For Employers
Any employer that has to reduce hours, give furloughs, layoff employees must:
- Send a letter to the Office of the Commissioner of Labor. The letter must include the names of those affected employees in advance of the reduction of hours to twenty (20) hours per week, discharge or layoff.
- Contact the Department of Labor directly at the following: St. Thomas – 340-776-3700, ext.2094 or 2013. On St. Croix, call 340-773-1994, ext. 2152 or 2154.
- File quarterly reports on time. The reports are necessary to assure workers receive the correct amount of unemployment compensation.
- Send a notice to employees explaining why their hours are being reduced or they are being discharged or laid off.
For Employees
Workers who have been laid off or had their hours reduced to 20 hours of less per week can apply for benefits. They are urged to contact the Department of Labor at the following: St. Thomas – 340-776-3700, ext.2094 or 2013. On St. Croix, call 340-773-1994, ext. 2152 or 2154.
