The Guam Department of Labor (GDOL) continues its preparation to implement the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) Program that will assist thousands of individuals whose jobs have been impacted by the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).
It was just last week that Governor Lourdes Leon Guerrero signed the agreement with the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) as mandated by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
On April 6, 2020, the Assistant Secretary of Labor, John Pallasch, and the Employment and Training Administration, issued its advisory which provides the details of the PUA Program’s operating, financial, and reporting instructions.
“As we continue to work expeditiously and diligently toward the implementation of the PUA Program, the release of this advisory takes us one step closer to providing the economic relief the people of Guam are in dire need of due to the COVID-19,” stated Governor Leon Guerrero. “Due to the unprecedented times, I have assigned GDOL Director Dave Dell’Isola and Guam Economic Development Authority Deputy Administrator, Dr. Artemio “Ricky” Hernandez to collaborate on this important program.”
The GDOL has continued to receive information related to the ongoing layoffs and furloughs directly from businesses totaling in the thousands. “We are working as quickly as possible as we understand the urgency of this to our people,” stated Dell’Isola. “As we achieve milestones in this process, we will certainly let the public know to ensure everyone is kept abreast of the latest information.”
“We are ensuring that we establish an automated online process to the maximum extent possible due to social distancing requirements as well as an in-person process for those unable to apply online,” added Hernandez.
In preparation for those that may be eligible for the PUA Program, the GDOL recommends preparing the necessary documents and information ahead of the application submission process. Such documentation and information include ensuring individuals have a valid photo ID, passport, copies of the latest paycheck stubs, a Social Security number, and a Certification Letter from their employer.
Dell’Isola concluded, “Once we finalize the requirements of applicants, we will issue out additional guidance as to any additional documentation or information that may be needed. We thank the public for their patience as both the USDOL and the GDOL work to get this program up and running.”
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