California allows employees sickened or affected by coronavirus to file claims for government benefits

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) announced Tuesday evening that Californians who are unable to work because they are sick with COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, will now be able to claim short-term disability insurance from the state.

“[California] has waived the one-week waiting period for those unemployed or disabled as a result of COVID-19,” Newsom tweeted.

“If a medical professional says you’re unable to work, if your hours have been reduced, or your employer has shut down — you can file a claim,” he added.

BREAKING: CA has waived the 1 week waiting period for those unemployed or disabled as a result of COVID-19.

If a medical professional says you’re unable to work, if your hours have been reduced, or your employer has shut down — you can file a claim.
—> https://t.co/EHzOdKgoV3

— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) March 12, 2020

According to the state’s website, the disability insurance covers “60-70 percent of wages (depending on income) and range from $50-$1,300 a week.”

Earlier in the week, Newsom prohibited gatherings or events of 250 people or more. California has reported nearly 200 cases of COVID-19 and four virus-related deaths. In the U.S., there have been more than 1,300 confirmed cases and more than 30 related deaths.