A simple way to help workers and employers hurt by coronavirus

As concerns over the novel coronavirus mount, more workers need to stay home from work than usual. But for small businesses least able to handle disruptions in revenues, it can be difficult to pay those workers while they are on leave.

According to Republicans Sen. Mike Lee of Utah and Rep. Martha Roby of Alabama, there’s a logical solution. It’s one that he’s included in his Working Families Flexibility Act — one that’s both entirely optional and would cost nothing.