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Not comfortable going back to work? You can still receive federal benefits

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — As Tennessee prepares to reopen, some may be left with a difficult decision: going back to work during the pandemic.

If someone is collecting unemployment, and they are afraid to go back to work because of COVID-19, they can still receive federal benefits.

During Wednesday’s COVID-19 briefing, Governor Bill Lee was asked about any concerns with people crossing county lines for their work commute.

Some surrounding counties could reopen next week, but Metro areas may not reopen until later. Lee says as long as people continue to practice social distancing it will be alright.

“That's is how we create an economy that people can go to work in, but go to work in safely, and continue to mitigate the spread of this virus, that's what the goal is and we believe that's what's going to happen in the weeks ahead,” Lee said.

Our state labor commissioner says his office is still working through the federal guidance about those benefits for folks who don't feel safe to go back to work.