NY HERO Act Designation Lifted
Today, the NYS Department of Labor shared the news that the designation of COVID-19 as an airborne infectious disease that presents a serious risk of harm to the public health under the NYS HERO Act ended as of March 17, 2022. Private sector employers are no longer required to implement their workforce safety plans.
The New York Health and Essential Rights Act (NY HERO Act) was signed into law on May 5, 2021. The law mandates extensive new workplace health and safety protections in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of the NY HERO Act is to protect employees against exposure and disease during a future airborne infectious disease outbreak. The designation of COVID-19 as an airborne infectious disease that presents a serious risk of harm to the public health was originally made September 6, 2021, and has been extended multiple times since then.
Greater Rochester Chamber will continue to update members on any further developments through the weekly Tuesday Voice of Business e-newsletter. We also recommend businesses continue to monitor the NYS Department of Health website, NYS HERO Act website, CDC guidance, etc. for continuing guidance on COVID-19 given the recent surge overseas.
Members with questions regarding the NYS HERO Act or other HR-related questions may contact Kathy Richmond, Sr. Director, HR Services at (585) 256-4618 for assistance.