The grocery chain company, Kroger Co. and its largest labor union are petitioning with federal and state officials in order to designate grocery store workers as first responders for the duration of the coronavirus pandemic. Both groups argue that grocery store workers face immense risk due to the nature of their jobs. This designation would allow workers greater access to protective equipment.
See "Kroger and its main union want grocery store workers designated as first responders ", Business Journals, April 14, 2020