Governor Cuomo has confirmed that the Western New York region is set to begin re-opening effective May 19, 2020. This begins Phase One of the COVID-19 re-opening process.
These industries are entitled to re-open so long as they demonstrate a plan to protect employees and customers:
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Retail (but only Curbside Pickup)
- Wholesale Trade
- Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
In addition, the Governor is allowing certain low-risk industries, such as landscaping and gardening, to re-open with safety processes in place.
All industries and professions should be reviewing the safety plan guidance being provided by New York State government. Another useful source is the Centers for Disease Control’s workplace re-opening guidance.
Phase Two – which should begin for the Western New York region in approximately 2 weeks – will include retail, professional services, administrative support, and real estate/rentals and leasing.
For guidance on this and other workplace safety issues and issues around labor and employment related to COVID-19, feel free to reach out.
Our attorneys have been guiding Essential Employers over the past few months and are ready and willing to assist businesses as they re-open. Keeping employees and the general public continue to be a high priority across New York State.
