Dozens of people were forced to stop working three weeks ago after a massacre at two farms in Half Moon Bay.
Renato Juárez Pérez is one of those affected after one of his cousins was killed and another was injured in the shootout.
Being the only relative of these victims in America, Renato has not been able to work because he has had to complete the proper procedures to bring his deceased cousin back to Mexico and help his other relative, Pedro Félix Romero Pérez, who Locked up in jail. Hospital from Stanford.
“Well, sometimes they ask me to sign some papers, we’re going to do this and that and that’s how the whole day goes by and we already know it’s four and five and Driving is a bit tiring and pure it is actually a bit heavy to walk like this”, said Renato.
Given these circumstances, Telemundo 48 investigated to find a way to help Renato and found that the California Department of Employment offers paid family leave.
How does this permit work
Eligible individuals are those who need to take time off from work to care for a seriously injured family member.
Those who are eligible can receive benefits for up to eight weeks, with payments amounting to approximately 60% to 70% of the weekly wages the person earned 5 to 18 months prior to the start date of their application.
It is important to note that anyone can apply for this assistance, regardless of their immigration status.
“You cannot be fired when you are taking family leave because of the illness or death of one or all of your family members,” explained Karen Carrera, an employment attorney.
Carrera recommends that if employees find themselves in this situation, they notify their employers in writing, either by text message or email.
It is also important to have proof of receipts or letters proving the status.
For his part, Renato was able to begin the process with the US Department of Employment on Monday and assured him that if approved it would be an economic relief for him and his family.
For more information in Spanish about this benefit, visit www.edd.ca.gov
