Tesla HR Warns Returning Workers Could Lose Unemployment Pay
Tesla's HR chief informs California employees that skipping recalled work shifts may jeopardize their unemployment benefits, though the company promises no internal penalties. This warning follows Elon Musk's decision to reopen the Fremont factory in defiance of local health orders.
Tesla's HR leader Valerie Workman warns California employees that staying home instead of returning to work potentially affects their unemployment benefits. The company clarifies that local government agencies, not Tesla, make the final determination on these benefits. However, Tesla promises to respect employees' decisions and imposes no internal penalties on those who choose not to return.
This warning comes after CEO Elon Musk reopens the Fremont factory in direct defiance of Alameda County's Covid-19 health orders. Musk threatens to move the company's headquarters and operations out of California while filing a lawsuit against the county over the restrictions that halt production since late March.
Local authorities remain silent on whether Tesla faces repercussions for resuming production this past weekend. The Fremont Police Department, responsible for enforcing the health orders, does not confirm if officers attempt to inspect the factory or secure access to verify the comprehensive safety measures Tesla claims to implement.