When I was checking into unemployment benefits someone in HR notified the state that I left the company by my choice instead of telling them they had layoff.
Doing this is illegal, no gray zone. I'm not sure what you were told, but if this is true, than you and whomever was laid off at the time had every ground for a law suit.
Call the NE dept of labor for the REAL truth at 402-471-9000. Make sure to opt in for a recorded line!
Heck, I bet HR went to BP just to plot what they're going to do once one signs off!
Just not true. Better check the law. Better yet, go ahead and sign it and see what happens.
If you're taking the $20,000 plus severance you should be able to claim unemployment if you cannot find a job afterward. It's considered a reduction in workforce according to Nebraska Dept of Labor.
Hate to say it but If you take the package that was offered, you are leaving the company and it is not a layoff.