The US Labor Department told states on Thursday that they may amend their laws to offer unemployment benefits related to the coronavirus. Workers eligible to receive these benefits include those who are quarantined, caring for a family member or leaving their employer over risk of exposure or infection.

Officials in Waterloo, Iowa, are defending an ordinance passed last November that bars employers from asking prospective employees about any criminal history they may have and limits when background checks can be done. The Iowa Association of Business and Industry has filed a lawsuit asking the state to prevent the city from enforcing the rule.

Walmart implemented an emergency leave policy after an employee in a Kentucky store tested positive for COVID-19, the illness caused by the novel coronavirus. The company's attendance policy is waived through the end of April, and employees who undergo quarantine or contract the illness will be paid for up to two weeks.

As the economy continues to suffer, experts offer their advice for minimizing the impact on businesses, staff and supply chains. Henry Albrecht, CEO of Limeade, suggests open communication with employees is fundamental, while Skyroam President Eric Plam recommends investing in technology that allows staff to work remotely.

Huge and advocacy group Period created a toilet paper dispenser accessible only with coins and placed it in a men's restroom to highlight the frustration experienced by women with tampon machines. A video showcases the activation, which also allowed men to access toilet paper by tweeting with #FreeThePeriod, and Huge's Stephanie Loffredo says, "We partnered with Period to recreate the experience of what it feels like when you're asked to pay for a basic human need with an obsolete form of payment."