On September 6, 2021, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the New York State Department of Health designated COVID-19 a highly contagious communicable disease preventing serious risk of harm to the public health in New York State. This designation was in effect until September 30, 2021. The Department of Health announced that the designation has been extended until October 31, 2021. Meaning all HERO Act plans must remain effective until October 31, 2021. 

 

Please also be advised that the State updated its model plan to incorporate vaccination at the workplace. We recommend utilizing the new version of the model plan, which indicates that in workplaces where all individuals on the premises are vaccinated (including, but not limited to, employees), face coverings are recommended - not required. For all other workplaces, employees must wear appropriate face coverings in accordance with guidance from the Department of Health and CDC. 

 

The State’s updated model plan is below: