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Legislation (S.1034-A/A.2681-B) directs NYS Departments of Labor & Health to create enforceable health and safety model plan to prevent airborne infectious diseases in workplace
Legislation allows workplace health & safety committees composed of employees and employers
Gov. Andrew Cuomo released this statement on Thursday:
"When the COVID-19 pandemic began, it quickly became clear that New York's employers weren't taking adequate steps to protect their workers from airborne infectious disease. The state acted quickly to lay down basic guidelines through executive orders, but it was clear that a permanent, legislative solution was needed.
"The first-in-the-nation NY HERO Act directs state agencies to create clear, enforceable health and safety standards that private employers have to follow to keep their employees, and by extension their communities, safe. It also gives workers a voice in the process so employers aren't the sole arbiters of workplace safety from disease. This is a historic step forward for working people and a preventative measure that will ensure we're better prepared for the next public health crisis. I was proud to sign this bill into law and look forward to reviewing the new standards to protect workers and build a stronger New York."