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New Requirement for Essential Businesses in New York

As part of Governor Cuomo’s “New York State on PAUSE” initiative, non-essential businesses were required to cease all in-person operations back in March. Businesses deemed essential have been permitted to continue in-person operations provided they comply with social distancing and other workplace protocols. This week, Governor Cuomo signed Executive Order 202.16, enacting an additional requirement for essential businesses and entities.

Effective Wednesday, April 15, 2020 at 8 P.M., any employees who are present in the workplace must be provided with and must wear face coverings when in direct contact with customers or members of the public. Essential businesses and entities must provide, at their own expense, such face coverings for their employees. This requirement may be enforced by local governments or local law enforcement.

Essential businesses and entities should continue to comply with previous orders and guidance for social distancing and workplace protocols.

Executive Order 202.16 has been provided for your convenience. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding the Governor’s Executive Orders.