A Summary of New York’s New HERO Act
May 6, 2021
As a bonus to Bond’s May 4 webinar about the evolving legal implications of COVID-19 for business, Bond labor and employment attorney Stephanie H. Fedorka recorded a short video about what employers need to know about the New York State Health and Essential Rights (or HERO) Act.
Passed by the New York State Legislature on April 20, the HERO Act adds two new sections to the state’s labor law. The first, Section 218-b, establishes enforceable workplace safety standards intended to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and future airborne infectious diseases. To comply, an employer will have to adopt an infectious disease exposure prevention plan that addresses personal protective equipment, employee health screenings, disinfection practices and more. Section 218-b also includes an anti-retaliation provision to protect workers. The second, Section 27-d, will require employers to permit workers to create workplace safety committees.
The full presentation covered the following topics:
- Continuing Questions for Employers Related to the New York Marijuana Legislation
- Updated CDC Guidance and its Impact on New York Businesses
- The HERO Act – Summary and Status
- Update from Albany
Click here to view the webinar in its entirety or to register for upcoming Tuesday presentations.
