NY Extends Paid Leave for COVID Vaccinations Through December 31, 2023
In March 2021, former Governor Cuomo signed legislation providing up to four hours of paid leave for New York employees to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, (codified as New York Labor Law Section 196-C). New York employers should be aware that Section 196-C was recently extended to remain in effect through December 31, 2023. Accordingly, all New York employers should review their COVID vaccination leave policies to ensure that they apply through the new expiration date. Furthermore, New York employers should advise their managers and HR professionals of their New York employees' continued right to this paid leave.
Employers should remain aware that this paid COVID vaccination leave cannot be charged against any other leave to which the employee is entitled, including paid sick leave or leave provided under a collective bargaining agreement.
DWT attorneys will monitor and report on any guidance that is issued and provide advice and counsel to employers about any updates employers must make to materials such as employee handbook policies and workplace postings in order to comply with the new law.