Earlier this month, the State of Florida approved the WWE's request to be recognized as "an essential business" and continue its business operations from its facilities in Orlando.The decision has been met with considerable controversy as the professional wrestling organization continues to film matches throughout the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. According to Spectrum Sports 360 host Jon Alba, an anonymous complaint has been filed to Florida's Orange County Board of County Commissioners. Remaining anonymous over fears of employment termination, the public complaint alleges that the WWE has forced employees to work television tapings despite the stay-at-home orders during the global health crisis.
The WWE issued its own public statement refuting the anonymous employee's claims while criticizing their decision to go public with the complaint rather than the organization's internal HR department.
"These accusations aren't true. Employees know they can confidentially go to Human Resources, not the public. Notwithstanding the appropriate protocol, no one would be fired if they were uncomfortable with their surroundings," declared the WWE in a written statement to PWInisder. "We've made accommodations for individuals upon request."
Even with the essential business designation, the WWE has endured major cuts to both staff size and salaries due to the pandemic as it continues to film new matches in Orlando.