NYS COVID-19 Sick Pay Sunsetting July 31
New York State employers are reminded that, beginning July 31, 2025, they will no longer be required to provide COVID-specific sick time to employees.
Since March 2020, New York employers have been required to provide sick time, above and beyond what is required under the NYS Paid Sick Leave Law, for employees who are under a mandatory order of quarantine or isolation because of COVID-19. Under a provision of last year's NYS budget, this COVID-19 sick pay requirement will sunset on July 31.
However, employees may still be entitled to use sick time available to them under the NYS paid sick leave laws. Employees may also be eligible to apply for NYS Paid Family Leave to care for a covered family member for reasons related to COVID-19, if the family member’s condition meets the definition of a serious health condition.
Employers should review and revise their existing policies and employee handbooks as needed to account for the upcoming change in the law.
Chamber members with questions on this or other HR-related topics are welcome to reach out to any of the HR Helpline staff members listed below for assistance. Corporate and Partner tier members have unlimited access to the Helpline as a benefit of membership. Business Builder members receive 4 HR Helpline inquiries each membership year, and Basic members receive 1 HR Helpline inquiry each membership year. Jennifer Suppe', Manager, Organizational Culture and HR Services, (585) 256-4608, Cindy Miller, HR Services Partner, (585) 256-4606, and Kathy Richmond, Sr. Director, HR Services, (585) 256-4618.