CERB Is Officially Dead In Canada After Its Replacement Got Unanimous Support
It’s official — the CERB in Canada is over. On Tuesday, the House of Commons unanimously passed legislation authorizing the new EI benefits, which are set to replace the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB).
On September 29, Canada’s politicians agreed to move forward with a new and temporarily simplified EI program, which will replace the now-defunct CERB.
After discussing the change for four and a half hours, the House unanimously passed Bill C-4.
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On Wednesday, the Senate will gather to decide what happens next with the new EI program.
The new benefit now offers $500 per week to those who are unable to work due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Per Jagmeet Singh’s request, the benefit has also expanded the criteria for sick leave payments. This means Canadians who get COVID-19 or have to take time off work due to other health conditions, will be covered.
A new recovery benefit will also be introduced for those who do not qualify for EI right now.
Not only did Tuesday's decision officially confirm the end of the CERB, but it also ceased concerns about a possible federal election in the fall.