As we near the end of another year of COVID-19 and face yet more surges in cases, governments are working to adapt in order to keep employees safe. In addition to new COVID-19 laws and regulations, incoming New York State Governor Hochul has signed a number of other laws affecting employers.

Employers need to make sure all policies are in compliance and that all handbooks and policies reflect these changes. Here is a summary of what employers need to know:

• Federal: Vaccine-or-Test Mandate - The 6th Circuit Court of Appeals has lifted the stay on the OSHA vaccine-or-test mandate. (Effective January 10, 2022)
• NYC: Vaccine Mandate - All NYC employers must implement a vaccine mandate for all employees who work in the presence of at least one other person. (Effective December 27, 2021)
• NYS: Vaccine Leave - All NYS employers must provide time off for COVID-19 sick leave or to receive/recover from vaccines. (In effect)
• NYS: Minimum Wage - Minimum wage increases in Long Island and Westchester to $15/hour, and in the rest of the state (outside NYC) to $13.20/hour. Minimum exempt salary also increases in all parts of NYS outside NYC. (Effective December 31, 2021)
• NYS: Employer-Mandated Retirement Savings Programs – Private employers in business at least 2 years with at least 10 employees that have not offered a retirement plan must automatically enroll employees in New York State's Secure Choice Savings Plan. (In effect)
• NYS: Shared Work Programs – Employees facing a potential...

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