Stephen D. Hans & Associates.
New York City employers must pay attention to legislation passed at the city level as well as the state level. NYC legislators enacted several changes at the end of December, 2021 that effect how employers deal with employees in 2022.
COVID-19: Paid Child Vaccine Leave
The New York City Council passed paid child vaccine leave for COVID-19 legislation and made it effective December 24, 2021. In addition, the measure is retroactive to November 2, 2021. The measure covers paid leave for parents or legal guardians to accompany a minor child (under 18) to receive a COVID-19 vaccination or to attend to a child’s care due to vaccine side effects. It covers up to four hours of leave for each child injected with the vaccine. In this case, a parent would be a biological, foster or adoptive parent, or a step-parent or legal guardian. The definition of child would also include special needs older children who are incapable of self-care due to mental or physical disability.
Parents should provide employers with reasonable notice about the intention to take a Child Vaccine Leave. In addition, employers may require vaccination documentation as proof of the child’s vaccination.
Employers cannot take adverse actions against employees for taking the leave. Nor can they require the employee to work extra hours to make up for the time off.
Private Employers Vaccine Mandate
Legislation went into effect in NYC on December 27, 2021 that requires employers to exclude unvaccinated employees from NYC workplaces. All employees entering the employer’s office or facility must do the following:
- Provide proof of at least one dose of vaccine (a second dose within 45 days)
- Request a reasonable accommodation based on disability or a sincerely held religious belief
(Update reference: JD Supra)
Do you have questions or concerns about laws regarding New York City employers?
If you have employee-related questions about new NYC laws, our firm can help. Discuss your concerns with an attorney at Stephen D. Hans & Associates, P.C. Call (718) 275-6500.
