MEMO TO: All Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, Big Cedar Lodge and White River Marine Group
outfitters and team members
FROM: Gary Ehlers, Vice President of Human Resources
DATE: March 16, 2020
SUBJECT: New COVID-19 policy to support the health of our team members and
outfitters
As we have shared, we are steadfast in our commitment to the health and safety of our people and
our customers. Over the last few weeks, the leadership team, led by Johnny, has been intensely
engaged on issues related to the coronavirus issue. This past week, he created a special working
team to spearhead critical company decision making regarding the virus. That team is carefully
listening to your comments and suggestions and we encourage you to continue to share your
thoughts.
The purpose of this note is to update you on a new, temporary COVID-19 emergency leave policy
that we’ve decided to implement immediately. We have identified four potential scenarios that may
apply during the outbreak, and we have an adjusted policy for each as outlined below.
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Concerned team member
We understand many of you may be personally concerned about the risk of potential
exposure, particularly if you are an older adult or if you have a serious chronic medical
conditions, whom the CDC has identified as among the most vulnerable. If you determine you
are unable to work or if other circumstances prevent you from working due to the virus, you
can choose to stay home. To support you making this personal choice, call in to your
immediate supervisor or HR rep. and we will waive our attendance policy. In order to be paid
for this time, you may use your regular paid time off options. If you feel the need to extend
beyond your paid options, you can take additional unpaid time off, but please call in as usual
to let us know.
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Sick with flu-like symptoms
If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, contact your immediate supervisor or HR rep by
phone. Do not come to work until you are well. As with above, we will waive our attendance
policy. You may request available sick leave or vacation time. If your physician determines
you need to be tested, we will offer you up to five days of additional paid time off as long as
you call in to your supervisor or HR rep as usual and provide confirmation from your
physician.
-
Diagnosed with COVID-19
If you have been officially diagnosed with COVID-19, or exposed to someone who has been
officially diagnosed with COVID-19, contact your immediate supervisor or HR rep by phone.
You will be fully paid for up to two weeks while in quarantine. Any care required after two
weeks would qualify for short-term disability pay for those who opted in to our insurance
plan. If you require additional care after two weeks, contact your HR representative as plans
may change based on pending legislation.