As businesses face economic challenges, a wave of layoffs is expected to hit the workforce, affecting thousands of employees across nearly 100 companies. While companies have the right to restructure and reduce workforce sizes, they must comply with federal and state laws that protect workers from sudden job loss. One such critical law is the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act. If you or someone you know has been affected by these mass layoffs, you may have legal recourse.
What Is the WARN Act?
The WARN Act is a federal law designed to provide workers with advance notice of mass layoffs or plant closures. Under this law, employers with 100 or more full-time employees must give at least 60 days’ notice before laying off 50 or more employees at a single worksite. Many states also have their own WARN laws, which may provide even greater protections.
Are Companies Violating the WARN Act?
While some layoffs are unavoidable, companies must follow legal procedures before terminating large groups of employees. Failure to provide adequate notice may result in a violation of the WARN Act, and affected employees may be entitled to compensation, including back pay and benefits for up to 60 days.
Companies often attempt to bypass WARN Act requirements by claiming:
- Unforeseeable business circumstances
- Natural disasters
- Faltering company exceptions (arguing that prior notice would make financial recovery impossible)
However, these exceptions are narrowly applied and do not excuse employers from their obligations in most cases.
What Should Affected Employees Do?
If you were laid off as part of these mass job cuts and did not receive adequate notice, you may have a legal claim under the WARN Act. Here’s what you should do:
- Review Your Termination Notice – Check if your employer provided at least 60 days’ written notice before the layoff.
- Gather Documentation – Keep copies of your termination letter, pay stubs, and any communication from your employer.
- Consult an Attorney – Employment law attorneys can assess whether you have a claim and help you seek compensation.
- Know Your Rights – Some states have their own mini-WARN laws that provide even stronger protections for workers.
How We Can Help
If you believe your employer failed to follow WARN Act requirements, contact us for a free consultation. We will evaluate your case and discuss your legal options to fight for your rights.
Don’t Let Employers Take Advantage of You
Losing a job is already difficult, but losing it without proper notice is unlawful. If you or someone you know was affected by these recent mass layoffs, reach out to our legal team today.
Contact us now to explore your options and protect your rights.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Sauder Schelkopf. Laws vary by jurisdiction, and the application of law depends on individual circumstances. You should not act or rely on any information in this post without seeking professional legal counsel. If you need legal assistance, please contact a qualified attorney to discuss your specific situation.