Some of Google’s 12,000 laid-off employees are protesting. According to information obtained by CNBC, more than 100 former employees have created the “Laid off on Leave” organization, which is pleading with Google to pay for any leaves—including parental, medical, and carer leave—that they were authorised to take before to the January 20th layoff announcement. Although the business announced in early 2022 that it was increasing all parental leave to 18 weeks for full-time employees (and 24 weeks for birth parents), it informed dismissed workers that they would receive 16 weeks of severance pay plus two weeks for every additional year of service, with paid time off included.
The group members claim that the strategy has interrupted healthcare in addition to their parenting plans (even some who had just given birth). The day they received their layoff notices, some former employees claim they lost access to Google’s internal medical care, preventing them from receiving continuous in-person therapy. Google has made virtual doctor appointments available, but has otherwise urged those who are impacted to look for alternatives.
Google reiterated its 16-week severance pay plan in a statement to Engadget, adding that departing employees will be entitled to regular pay and stock options during their “60+ day” notice period. According to Google, its accommodations for employees on leave are “favorably” comparable to those of other businesses.
The impacted parties are requesting immediate clarification of the leave policy from CEO Sundar Pichai and other executives. As early as March 31st, Google is prepared to settle on severance arrangements.
