Reply #: You most certainly and assuredly are laid off as there was no work

[Gman]

They are also probably trying to stop an unemployment claim too. Talk to your state department of labor or workforce commission, or whoever manages your unemployment issues. As long as you make yourself available for work (i.e. show up to work), you fulfill what is required of you. If the employer does not have work for you, then he lays you off. It's that simple.

As for COBRA, are they saying you're not entitled to COBRA? I believe (unless something has changed) you are as the reason you left your last work does not determine your eligibility for COBRA.