New York State Lifts Most COVID-19 Reopening Guidance

New York State has announced that most COVID-19 industry reopening guidance has been lifted because 70% of the State’s adult residents (18 years and older) have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.  In making the announcement, the State said:

With the removal of the State's minimum standard for reopening, businesses are free to choose to lift all or some restrictions, continue to adhere to the State's archived guidance, or implement other health precautions for their employees and patrons.  Businesses are also authorized to require masks and six feet of social distancing for employees and patrons within their establishments, regardless of vaccination status.  Any mask requirements that businesses choose to implement must adhere to applicable federal and state laws and regulations, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act.  

The areas that remain subject to the State’s reopening guidance are fairs and festivals, large-scale performing arts and entertainment, Pre-K to Grade 12 schools, professional sports with fans, and public transportation.  Thus, all other industries are now free to discontinue all previously implemented COVID-19 reopening protocols, including employee health screenings, or choose to voluntarily continue to adhere to the prior reopening guidance, or implement other health precautions.  The announcement also says that, in accordance with CDC guidance, unvaccinated individuals continue to be responsible for wearing masks.

Read more...