The Walt Disney Company has announced that they will furlough non-essential executive, salaried, and non-union hourly Cast Members in domestic parks starting April 19th. Eligible Cast Members will continue to receive will healthcare benefits.
“The COVID-19 pandemic is having a devastating impact on our world with untold suffering and loss, and has required all of us to make sacrifices. Over the last few weeks, mandatory decrees from government official have shut down a majority of our businesses. Disney employees have received full pay and benefits during this time, and we’ve committed to paying them through April 18, for a total of five additional weeks of compensation. However, with no clear indication of when we can restart our businesses, we’re forced to make the difficult decision to take the next step and furlough employees whose jobs aren’t necessary at this time. The furlough process will begin on April 19, and all impacted workers will remain Disney employees through the duration of the furlough period. They will receive full healthcare benefits, plus the cost of employee and company premiums will be paid by Disney, and thos enrolled in Disney Aspire will have continued access to the education program. Additionally, employees with available paid time off can elect to use some or all of it at the start of the furlough period, and once furloughed are eligible to receive an extra $600 per week in federal compensation through the $2 trillion economic stimulus bill, as well as state unemployment insurance.”
Disney is still in discussions with unions regarding represented workers impacted by the furlough.
Currently, Disney parks are closed until further notice.
Source: Ashley Carter/Spectrum News / Scott Gustin
