Under a new emergency policy rolled out Saturday by University of Nebraska President Ted Carter, employees will be able to take up to 80 hours of paid administrative leave for absences related to COVID-19.
The policy is effective immediately and applies to all University of Nebraska employees, including temporary and student workers. Part-time employees will be eligible for a prorated number of hours of leave. Under the policy, and subject to supervisor approval, employees may take paid administrative leave for self-quarantine, quarantine or care of an immediate family member, childcare resulting from school closures, or other scenarios related to the coronavirus.
The temporary policy is intended to “create as much stability as we can for members of our community through this rapidly changing situation,” Carter wrote in a message to all employees Saturday. He added that the closings of Lincoln and Omaha schools have created particular uncertainty for many families.
“My hope is that the option of emergency administrative leave gives you additional peace of mind as you care for your families, protect your health and continue to deliver on the vital mission of the University of Nebraska,” Carter wrote. “Our bottom line is that no employee should find themselves at a disadvantage because of this global pandemic.”
Carter noted that flexible work arrangements remain the university’s “first line of defense” and urged supervisors to create as much flexibility as possible for their team members, whether allowing them to work remotely, work during non-business hours or other approaches. However, he acknowledged that not every job can be performed at home.
Employees wishing to take emergency leave for COVID-19 related absences should follow their normal process for requesting time off.
Carter said university leadership will continue to evaluate leave policies in the weeks ahead as part of an ongoing effort to provide flexibility and support to employees through the pandemic. He praised employees for their resilience “even as we find our new normal,” including a system-wide transition to remote learning after spring break.
“To witness your leadership and diligence during these times — and your care and concern for our 51,000 students — has reminded me yet again of the strength of our university system,” he wrote. “There really is no place like Nebraska.”
Carter’s full message to employees, including a detailed Q&A, is available here. Faculty and staff are encouraged to contact their campus human resources office with additional questions.