While the Federal government passed legislation to help ease some of the financial strains caused by the COVID-19 outbreak (the illness caused by the novel Coronavirus) for Americans, NY State has also addressed this on the State level through a bill that will provide benefits to eligible New Yorkers until the Federal benefits become effective.
NY State Bill 08091 (also referred to as “Emergency COVID-19 Paid Sick Leave”) was passed on Wednesday and signed by Governor Cuomo, awaiting Regulations to specify implementation details.
Since certain COVID-19 related benefits will be covered under NY’s State Disability (DBL) and Paid Family Leave (PFL) insurance, which are largely provided by private carriers, NY State is closely collaborating with the industry on implementation of this new benefit.
In essence, employees, who are ordered by the State of NY, Department of Health, a local Board of Health, or any other governmental entity to be under mandatory quarantine/isolation due to COVID-19, would receive job protection and sick leave during the time of their quarantine. Whether they receive paid or unpaid sick leave, and whether the benefits would come from the employer or be covered through their DBL and PFL insurance depends on the size of the employer. You can read more about the details on NY’s COVID-19 Bill here.
There are many open questions surrounding the details, which we will post in our COVID-19 resource center as they emerge. And be sure to subscribe for updates to stay current on the latest information we have available.
Photo courtesy of Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo
This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal counsel. Please consult with an appropriate professional for legal and compliance advice. Any Disability Benefits Law (DBL) and/or Paid Family Leave (PFL) information is as of the blog post’s date stamp; it is based on the applicable statutes and regulation, and may change as regulations evolve or NY State issues guidance regarding DBL or PFL regulations. Have more questions? Email us at pflquestions@shelterpoint.com