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COVID-19 Resources for ABC Members

Covid-19 FAQ

The Empire State Chapter is dedicated to answering your important COVID-19 related questions. We have created the following FAQ page to help do so. As always, please call your Membership Director if you need any assistance.

NYS and Masks Wearing

  • Masks are encouraged to be used in New York, but there are currently no city or state mandate besides for individuals entering school buildings
  • Individual businesses will be allowed to require masks at/inside their establishments at their discretion
  • Masks are heavily encouraged for unvaccinated individuals or at risk individuals

Issues Regarding Vaccinations

Is asking or requiring an employee to show proof of receipt of a COVID-19 vaccination a disability-related inquiry? 

No.  There are many reasons that may explain why an employee has not been vaccinated, which may or may not be disability-related.  Simply requesting proof of receipt of a COVID-19 vaccination is not likely to elicit information about a disability and, therefore, is not a disability-related inquiry.  However, subsequent employer questions, such as asking why an individual did not receive a vaccination, may elicit information about a disability and would be subject to the pertinent ADA standard that they be “job-related and consistent with business necessity.”  If an employer requires employees to provide proof that they have received a COVID-19 vaccination from a pharmacy or their own health care provider, the employer may want to warn the employee not to provide any medical information as part of the proof in order to avoid implicating the ADA.

How much information may an employer request from an employee who calls in sick, in order to protect the rest of its workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic?

During a pandemic, ADA-covered employers may ask such employees if they are experiencing symptoms of the pandemic virus. For COVID-19, these include symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, or sore throat. Employers must maintain all information about employee illness as a confidential medical record in compliance with the ADA.

If an employer requires vaccinations, how should it respond to an employee who indicates that he or she is unable to receive a COVID-19 vaccination because of a sincerely held religious practice or belief? 

Once an employer is on notice that an employee’s sincerely held religious belief, practice, or observance prevents the employee from receiving the vaccination, the employer must provide a reasonable accommodation for the religious belief, practice, or observance unless it would pose an undue hardship under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.  Courts have defined “undue hardship” under Title VII as having more than a de minimis cost or burden on the employer. EEOC guidance explains that because the definition of religion is broad and protects beliefs, practices, and observances with which the employer may be unfamiliar, the employer should ordinarily assume that an employee’s request for religious accommodation is based on a sincerely held religious belief.  If, however, an employee requests a religious accommodation, and an employer has an objective basis for questioning either the religious nature or the sincerity of a particular belief, practice, or observance, the employer would be justified in requesting additional supporting information.

What happens if an employer cannot exempt or provide a reasonable accommodation to an employee who cannot comply with a mandatory vaccine policy because of a disability or sincerely held religious practice or belief?

If an employee cannot get vaccinated for COVID-19 because of a disability or sincerely held religious belief, practice, or observance, and there is no reasonable accommodation possible, then it would be lawful for the employer to exclude the employee from the workplace.  This does not mean the employer may automatically terminate the worker.  Employers will need to determine if any other rights apply under the EEO laws or other federal, state, and local authorities.

Can I require my employees to get vaccinated as part of their employment? 
Yes, according to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), employers can require all employees to be vaccinated before physically entering the workplace. So long as employers comply with the reasonable accommodation provisions of the ADA and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other EEOC Considerations. Read more by clicking here

Am I required to pay my employee if they leave work to get their vaccine? 
Yes. Employers are required to provide 4 hours of paid leave so employees can receive their COVID vaccine.

See the Paid Leave for COVID-19 Vaccinations fact sheet for more information.

How do I find the closest vaccine site?
Click here to find vaccines

How do I find the closest testing site?
Click here to find the closest testing site.

Other Vital COVID Questions

Am I required to pay people who are out on quarantine by me or local/state health departments?
Yes. When you send someone home because they have symptoms of COVID-19 or to get tested you must pay them under the New York State COVID Paid Sick Leave.

Employers that do not currently offer sick leave to some or all of their employees may want to draft non-punitive “emergency sick leave” policies. Ensure that sick leave policies are flexible and consistent with public health guidance and that employees are aware of and understand these policies.

Employer Size Net Income Level in 2019 Required Sick Days to Provide
1-10 Employees $1 Million or less Not Required
1-10 Employees Over $1 Million At least 5 days
11-99 Employees Doesn’t Matter At least 5 days
100 or more employees Doesn’t Matter At least 14 days
Public Employers Any Size At least 14 days

Click here for more information on the New York State COVID Sick Leave.

An employee called to say they were or may have been exposed to COVID-19. What do I do?
Employees who may have been exposed to the virus should stay home and monitor their symptoms. If after 72 hours, they remain symptom free, you can consider bringing them back to work. However, we recommend before bringing them back you require them to get tested.

For the rest of your employees, before you send them home or you ask them to get tested:

  • Have they been wearing a mask?
  • Are they working more than 6 feet apart?
  • Have they filled out their daily COVID-19 questionnaire?

If the answer to the above are yes, they can continue to work but you should monitor them for any symptoms.

Refer to question 1 about paying the employee

*The CDC has now defined prolonged exposure as being mask-less and closer than 6 feet for more than 15 minutes. If anyone matches that criteria we encourage you to pull them from the workforce and get them tested.

What should I do if an employee comes to work with COVID-19 symptoms?
Employees who have symptoms when they arrive at work or become sick during the day should be immediately sent home. They should not return to work until they no longer feel symptoms of COVID-19 after isolation and have consulted with a healthcare provider. You may require them to get a test before they can return to work.

After 24 hours without a fever, the employee can return to work as long as they continue to monitor their symptoms.

Do I have to pay them? Yes. See answer 1

What happens if one of my employees tests positive for COVID-19?
In most cases, you do not need to shut down your office or jobsite. If it has been less than 7 days since the sick employee has been in the office or on the site, close off any areas used for prolonged periods of time by the sick person:

  • Wait 24 hours before cleaning and disinfecting to minimize potential for other employees being exposed to respiratory droplets. If waiting 24 hours is not feasible, wait if possible. During this waiting period, open outside doors and windows to increase air circulation in these areas.
  • Inform employees of their possible exposure but maintain confidentiality as it relates to state law.

How do I bring back an employee that tested positive?
Persons with COVID-19 who have symptoms and were directed to care for themselves at home may discontinue isolation under ALL the following conditions:

  • At least 10 days* have passed since symptom onset
  • At least 24 hours have passed since resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications
  • Other symptoms have improved

Employees can return to work after meeting all quarantine breaking requirements listed here: Disposition of Non-Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19 | CDC

You can require them to get tested before returning to work. However, the policy must be non-discriminatory, and consistent. Test for Current Infection | CDC

I have an employee that has been out of work for more than 7 days after testing positive, is there anything I need to do on the jobsite or in the office?
If it has been 7 days or more since the sick employee used the office or jobsite, additional cleaning and disinfection is not necessary. Continue routinely cleaning and disinfecting all high-touch surfaces in the office or jobsite. Continue to ensure that all your employees monitor their symptoms and fill out their daily COVID-19 questionnaire.

What if the employee never felt symptoms but did have a positive test?
Persons infected with COVID who never develop symptoms may discontinue isolation and other precautions 10 days after the date of their first positive test.

I’m a subcontractor who had an employee test positive. Do I need to notify the general contractor?
First, you must ensure all your employees are filling out their daily COVID-19 questionnaire. You need to notify the general contractor of the positive test and the last time that employee was on the jobsite.

Refer back to Question 4 about dealing with employees who have tested positive

As a general contractor who was notified by a subcontractor of a positive COVID test. What are my notification responsibilities?
A general contractor needs to notify the project owner and other subcontractors.

ABC Empire State Chapter conducted a webinar that covers contractual requirements, click here for more information.

I’m a subcontractor, can I refuse to work on a site where the general contractor had someone test positive?
ABC Empire State Chapter conducted a webinar that covers contractual requirements, please click here for more information.

If I must shut down my office or my worksite job trailer what steps do I need to take?
Ensure your office staff have the proper equipment to work from home. You should consider having a professional service clean your office during the shutdown, however it’s not required.

New York State Hero Act Implications

When do I have to kick my airborne infectious disease prevention policy into action?

You must begin to implement and follow your plan if the Commissioner of Health designates an illness as something that is highly contagious. Seasonal colds and flus wont be considered but the Delta Variant could kick you policies into place if the Commissioner decides to designate it.

Please CLICK HERE to review the New York State DOL Hero Act Standards

What are my requirements if the Health Commissioner makes a designation? 

  1. You must verbally educate all of your employees on your plan and what they will be required to do
  2. You must provide the plans in both English & Spanish
  3. The rules put in place will be very similar to the plans members used during COVID

Please CLICK HERE to review the sample plan provided by the New York State Department of Labor

For more information on the Hero Act, please CLICK HERE to watch our webinar on the new requirements for businesses

COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Requirements in New York State

All individuals 12 years of age and older that reside in the United States are eligible to receive the vaccine. While the vaccination process is underway, New Yorkers should continue to wear a mask, social distance, avoid large gatherings and follow all other health guidelines.

FDA fact sheets for recipients and caregivers on each vaccine are available: PfizerModernaJohnson & Johnson.

COVID vaccines are widely available at pharmacies, local health departments, clinics, Federally Qualified Health Centers and other locations across the state. Visit Vaccines.gov to find appointments near you or contact your local pharmacy or provider.

To schedule an appointment directly at a New York State-run site, go to New York State’s vaccine scheduler and follow the instructions. Walk-in appointments are also accepted at New York State mass vaccination sites for all eligible individuals.

COVID-19 Newsletters

ABC Empire State is dedicated to providing our members with the most accurate and up to date information to keep them informed and successful. Our Merit Messenger newsletters is your resource to keep updated on what’s happening with COVID-19, government affairs, ABC trainings, webinars, upcoming events and everything going on at the ABC Empire State Chapter. 

Below is an archive of all of our newsletters so you can refer back to any information you may have missed or want to double-check.

Merit Messenger 11/10/21

OSHA Vaccine Mandate Update

ALERT: Hero Act Extended to December 15th

ENY Regional Clay Shoot Event Recap

Merit Messenger 10/13/21

Merit Messenger 9/15/21

 Merit Messenger 9/8/21

August 11th Merit Messenger

  • Member Satisfaction Survey
  • Fall Class Registration Now Open!

July 28th Merit Messenger

  •  H-2B Program Amended to Protect Construction Industry

July 14th Merit Messenger

  • Submit your Excellence in Construction Awards
  • Government Affairs Update
  • ABC in the News
  • Education Opportunities
  • Upcoming Webinars

June 30th Merit Messenger 

  • ABC Beats ORDA in 1st Round of PLA Fight
  • Government Affairs Update
  • ABC in the News
  • Education Opportunities

June 16th Merit Messenger 

  • ABC fires back at Sen. Gillibrand
  • Government Affairs Update
  • ABC in the News
  • Education Opportunities

May 26th Merit Messenger 

  • Government Affairs Update
  • ABC in the News
  • Education Opportunities

Masks Are Off, Now What? What Employers Need to Know

  • 5/19/21 Merit Messenger

May 12th Merit Messenger

  • SAVE-THE-DATE: 9/30/21 – 50 Years of Excellence in Construction
  • STEP – The Safety Training Evaluation Process: YOU NEED IT
  • Empire State Chapter Receives Multiple Awards at ONE Conference
  • REMINDER: Statewide Membership Update 6/15/21
  • Mircosoft Project Training
  • 2-Hour Drug & Alcohol Awareness Webinar
  • First-Aid/CPR/AED Trainings
  • Virtual Confined Space Entry Training
  • Marijuana Legalization Webinar
  • STEP – The Safety Training Evaluation Process: YOU NEED IT
  • Empire State Chapter Wins Multiple Awards
  • ABC & 48 Business Groups Call for Hero Act Reform
  • Sampson Praises NYC’s Committment to Highest Safety Standards
  • Empire State Chapter & 900+ Lobby Biden Against American Jobs Plan
  • U.S. Dept. of Treasury Issues American Rescue Plan Guidance
  • ABC Opposes DOL’s Withdrawl of Independent Contractor Rule
  • NYS Quarterly Membership Briefing
  • Rochester Regional Networking Event: Brews with Builders
  • ENY Regional Networking Event: Brews with Builders
  • 30 Member Companies Celebrate ABC Anniversaries in May
  • National’s COVID Vaccine Toolkit
  • COVID-19 Resources
  • COVID-19 Vaccination Eligibility
  • Employee Retention Tax Credit
  • Paycheck Protection Program

May 5th Merit Messenger

  • Former National Chair Pens Letter About the Value of ABC
  • SAVE-THE-DATE: 9/30/21 – 50 Years of Excellence in Construction
  • Empire State Chapter & 48 Business Groups Call for Hero Act Reform
  • STEP – The Safety Training Evaluation Process: YOU NEED IT
  • 30 Member Companies Celebrate ABC Anniversaries in May\
  • Empire State Chapter & 48 Business Groups Call for Hero Act Reform
  • Sampson All-In on High Safety Standards
  • ABC Praises NYC’s Commitment to Highest Safety Standards
  • Biden’s PTO Vaccine Tax Credit: What You Should Know
  • New York State HEROES Act Passes Senate
  • Reminder: COVID-19-related Tax Credits Extended Until September 30
  • Former National Chair Pens Letter About the Value of ABC
  • NYS Quarterly Membership Briefing
  • Rochester Regional Networking Event: Brews with Builders
  • ENY Regional Networking Event: Brews with Builders
  • STEP – The Safety Training Evaluation Process: YOU NEED IT
  • Microsoft Project Training
  • 2-Hour Drug & Alcohol Awareness Webinar
  • First-Aid/CPR/AED Trainings
  • Virtual Confined Space Entry Training
  • National’s COVID Vaccine Toolkit
  • COVID-19 Resources
  • COVID-19 Vaccination Eligibility
  • Employee Retention Tax Credit
  • Paycheck Protection Program

April 28th Merit Messenger

  • Former National Chair Pens Letter About the Value of ABC
  • SAVE-THE-DATE: 9/30/21 – 50 Years of Excellence in Construction
  • NYS Senate Passes HEROES Act
  • ABC National Launches COVID-19 Vaccine Toolkit on Website
  • STEP – The Safety Training Evaluation Process: YOU NEED IT
  • Sampson All-In on High Safety Standards
  • ABC Praises NYC’s Commitment to Highest Safety Standards
  • ABC’s Sampson Opposes Wage Theft Legislation
  • Biden’s PTO Vaccine Tax Credit: What You Should Know
  • New York State HEROES Act Passes Senate
  • Rep. Jacobs Testifies Before House Trans. & Infrastructure Committee
  • Reminder: COVID-19-related Tax Credits Extended Until September 30
  • Former National Chair Pens Letter About the Value of ABC
  • CNY Regional Quarterly Meeting
  • NYS Quarterly Membership Briefing
  • Rochester Regional Networking Event: Brews with Builders
  • ENY Regional Networking Event: Brews with Builders
  • STEP – The Safety Training Evaluation Process: YOU NEED IT
  • First-Aid/CPR/AED Trainings
  • Virtual Confined Space Entry Training
  • RESCHEDULED: What to Do When DOB Visits the Jobs Site – Part 2
  • National’s COVID Vaccine Toolkit
  • COVID-19 Resources
  • COVID-19 Vaccination Eligibility
  • Employee Retention Tax Credit
  • Paycheck Protection Program

April 21st Merit Messenger

  • SAVE-THE-DATE: 9/30/21 – 50 Years of Excellence in Construction
  • NYS Senate Passes HEROES Act
  • WEBINAR RESCHEDULED: What to Do When DOB Visits the Job Site
  • ABC National Launches COVID-19 Vaccine Toolkit on Website
  • STEP – The Safety Training Evaluation Process: YOU NEED IT
  • ABC’s Sampson Opposes Wage Theft Legislation
  • ABC’s Empire State Chapter Reaches 45 Million Readers with NY Post
  • CDC Issues New Guidance on Hygienic Protocals
  • New York State HEROES Act Passes Senate
  • Rep. Jacobs Testifies Before House Trans. & Infrastructure Committee
  • Reminder: COVID-19-related Tax Credits Extended Until September 30
  • Call to Action: Support The Fair and Open Competition Act
  • CNY Regional Quarterly Meeting
  • Rochester Regional Networking Event: Brews with Builders
  • ENY Regional Networking Event: Brews with Builders
  • STEP – The Safety Training Evaluation Process: YOU NEED IT
  • First-Aid/CPR/AED Trainings
  • Virtual Confined Space Entry Training
  • WEBIRESCHEDULED: What to Do When DOB Visits the Jobs Site – Part 2
  • National’s COVID Vaccine Toolkit
  • COVID-19 Resources
  • COVID-19 Vaccination Eligibility
  • Employee Retention Tax Credit
  • Paycheck Protection Program

April 14th Merit Messenger

  • ABC Advocates for Scaffold Reform Ahead of Marijuana Legalization
  • SAVE-THE-DATE: 9/30/21 – 50 Years of Excellence in Construction
  • WEBINAR: What to Do When DOB Visits the Job Site
  • STEP – The Safety Training Evaluation Process: YOU NEED IT
  • ABC’s Empire State Chapter Reaches 45 Million Readers with NY Post
  • EMPIRE REPORT: The American Jobs Plan, Or the Union Jobs Plan?
  • ABC Empire State Calls on NYS to Remove PLAs & Prevailing Wage
  • CDC Issues New Guidance on Hygienic Protocols
  • Call to Action: Support The Fair and Open Competition Act
  • ABC NATIONAL SURVEY: COVID-19 Vaccinations and the Workplace
  • L.I. Regional Quarterly Meeting
  • WNY Regional Quarterly Meeting
  • Rochester Regional Networking Event: Brews with Builders
  • STEP – The Safety Training Evaluation Process: YOU NEED IT
  • First-Aid/CPR/AED Trainings
  • Virtual Confined Space Entry Training
  • What to Do When DOB Visits the Jobs Site – Part 2
  • Update on ABC 11-Trade Multi-Employer Apprenticeship Program
  • COVID-19 Resources
  • COVID-19 Vaccination Eligibility
  • Employee Retention Tax Credit
  • Paycheck Protection Program

April 7th Merit Messenger

  • ABC Advocates for Scaffold Reform Ahead of Marijuana Legalization
  • SAVE-THE-DATE: 9/30/21 – 50 Years of Excellence in Construction
  • ABC Blasts Federal PRO Act, Holds Electeds Responsible
  • WEBINAR: What to Do When DOB Visits the Job Site
  • WEBINAR: Prepping the Company Handbook for Legalized Marijuana
  • STEP – The Safety Training Evaluation Process: YOU NEED IT
  • EMPIRE REPORT: The American Jobs Plan, Or the Union Jobs Plan?
  • ABC Empire State Calls on NYS to Remove PLAs & Prevailing Wage
  • CDC Issues New Guidance on Hygienic Protocals
  • ABC National Responds to Biden’s Infrastructure Package
  • Empire State Chapter Comments on Legalized Marijuana
  • New York State Legislature Votes to Legalize Recreational Marijuana
  • U.S. Senate Passes PPP Extension
  • Mayor Marty Walsh Sworn in as Secretary for the Department of Labor
  • Call to Action: Support The Fair and Open Competition Act
  • ABC NATIONAL SURVEY: COVID-19 Vaccinations and the Workplace
  • ENY Regional Quarterly Meeting
  • L.I. Regional Quarterly Meeting
  • Rochester Regional Quarterly Meeting
  • WNY Regional Quarterly Meeting
  • Rochester Regional Networking Event: Brews with Builders
  • How to Prepare for and Defend Against an OSHA Inspection
  • STEP – The Safety Training Evaluation Process: YOU NEED IT
  • What to Do When DOB Visits the Jobs Site
  • Legalization of Marijuana in NYS: Preparing Your Employee Handbook
  • Update on ABC 11-Trade Multi-Employer Apprenticeship Program
  • COVID-19 Resources
  • COVID-19 Vaccination Eligibility
  • Employee Retention Tax Credit
  • Paycheck Protection Program

March 17th Merit Messenger

  • Empire State Chapter Members Rank Nationally as Top Performers
  • State Legislature One-House Budget Proposals Recap
  • Call to Action: SUBMIT YOUR LETTER TODAY – Public Subsidy Board
  • Call to Action: Support The Fair and Open Competition Act
  • Confined Space Entry Training
  • How to Prepare for and Defend Against an OSHA Inspection
  • STEP – The Safety Training Evaluation Process: YOU NEED IT
  • President Brian Sampson Pens Letter to de Blasio: NO PLAs
  • Update on ABC 11-Trade Multi-Employer Apprenticeship Program
  • Welcome to our new Board Members
  • COVID-19 Resources
  • Employee Retention Tax Credit
  • Paycheck Protection Program

March 10th Merit Messenger

  • Congressman Reed to Address ABC Membership
  • Call to Action: Support The Fair and Open Competition Act
  • Confined Space Entry Training
  • How to Prepare for and Defend Against an OSHA Inspection
  • Construction Back to Basics Safety – Presented by Milwaukee Tools
  • Welcome Santino R. Thomas – Director of Communications & Marketing
  • Welcome to our new Board Members
  • Women In Construction Week 2021
  • COVID-19 Resources
  • Employee Retention Tax Credit
  • Paycheck Protection Program

Merit Messenger: FAREWELL AND GOOD LUCK STEPHANIE HART

  • Farewell and Good Luck Stephanie Hart
  • Webinar: How to Prepare for and Defend Against an OSHA Inspection
  • Congressman Reed to Address ABC Membership
  • Webinar: Virtual Confined Space Entry Training
  • Registration Now Open for the Spring CORE Class
  • Call to Action: Support The Fair and Open Competition Act
  • Additional Upcoming Webinars
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Wednesday, February 24th Merit Messenger

  • Webinar: How to Prepare for and Defend Against an OSHA Inspection
  • Congressman Reed to Address ABC Membership
  • Registration Now Open for the Spring CORE Class
  • Overview of OSHA’s Updated COVID-19 Guidance
  • PPP Loan Update
  • Additional Upcoming Webinars
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Wednesday, February 17th Merit Messenger

  • Sign Up Today for Our Spring CORE Construction Essentials Class
  • Helping Members Fight the PRO Act
  • Economic Update from ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu
  • Construction Back to Basics Safety Webinar
  • ABC Action App
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Wednesday, February 10th Merit Messenger

  • Devastating PRO Act Reintroduced
  • Federal Apprenticeship Bill Final Vote Tally
  • An Update On the I-81 Project
  • Final Unshackle Upstate Budget Memo
  • How to Implement a Legally Compliant Workplace COVID-19 Testing Program While Waiting for the Vaccine to Arrive Webinar
  • Construction Back to Basics Safety Webinar
  • Did You Know ABC Has Recorded Webinars?
  • ABC Action App
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Wednesday, February 3rd Merit Messenger

  • CYMI-Managing Employer Requirements As It Relates to Employees with COVID Symptoms Webinar Recording
  • OSHA Issues Advisory Workplace COVID-Safety Guidelines
  • CDC Requires Wearing of Face Masks While on Public Transportation and at Transportation Hubs
  • Voter Voice-Send a Message to Governor Cuomo
  • Chapter Issues Memo in Opposition to Newly Proposed Wage Theft Bill
  • ABC in the News
  • ABC Action App
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Wednesday, January 27th Merit Messenger

  • Upcoming Webinars
  • ABC in the News
  • In Case You Missed It-PPP Update
  • 2021 Custom Training
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Wednesday, January 20th Merit Messenger

  • U.S. DOL Announces Annual Adjustments to OSHA Civil Penalties
  • DOL Commissioner Provides Update on Unemployment Insurance
  • PPP Update
  • ABC in the News
  • Upcoming Webinars
  • 2021 Custom Training
  • January-March 2021 Toolbox Talks
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Wednesday, January 13th Merit Messenger

  • PPP Relaunched
  • COVID-19 Vaccine and the Construction Industry
  • Implications of 50-50 Senate and Closely Divided House
  • 2021 Custom Training
  • January-March 2021 Toolbox Talks
  • Safety Stand Down
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Wednesday, January 6th Merit Messenger

  • New York State’s Paid Sick Leave Now Accessible to Employees
  • New York State’s Minimum Wage as of 12/31/20
  • Update on Federal Paid Sick Leave
  • ABC Sends Letter to SBA and Treasury Urging New PPP Guidance
  • January-March 2021 Toolbox Talks
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Wednesday, December 16 Merit Messenger

  • ABC’s Letter to Governor Cuomo to Keep Construction Essential
  • SBA Releases New FAQ on PPP Loan Necessity Questionnaire
  • Webinar on Government-Mandated Project Labor Agreements
  • CTCNYS Spring 2021 Apprenticeship Classes Registration Open
  • myComply Webinar on January 6th-Register Today!
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Construction Not a Super Spreader of COVID 19

Wednesday, December 9th Merit Messenger

  • ABC Virtually Celebrates 2020 STEP Participants
  • Dannible & McKee Virtual Construction Conference
  • Questions Remain After New York DOL Releases Proposed Regulations Interpreting the New York Paid Sick
  • ABC Signs onto Business Coalition Letter to Curb Increases in Insurance Premiums & Taxes
  • ICYMI-COVID-19 FAQ
  • CTCNYS Spring 2021 Apprenticeship Classes Registration Open
  • Empire Chapter Resources

COVID-19 FAQ Email

  • As the state continues to see a potential second wave of COVID-19, we’ve received many calls about how to handle positive cases as well as potential exposures to the virus. We’ve consolidated the questions, as well as the answers, in this email to make it easier for you to navigate the steps required to protect you, your employees, your projects and your company

Microcluster Zone Information Email 

  • What is a Red, Orange and Yellow Zone?

Wednesday, November 18th Merit Messenger

  • 2020 Election Recap
  • ABC Empire Chapter Board Chair Will Be Northeast Regional Vice Chair in 2021
  • ABC signs onto Scaffold Law Reform Letter
  • CTCNYS Spring 2021 Apprenticeship Classes Registration Open
  • Register for Core Classes
  • Custom Training Classes-Sexual Harassment
  • ABC Annual Meeting
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Wednesday, November 4 Merit Messenger

  • CTCNYS Spring 2021 Apprenticeship Classes Registration Open
  • Register for Core Classes
  • Custom Training Classes-Sexual Harassment
  • SBA Develops Loan Necessity Questionnaires for PPP Borrowers Over $2 Million
  • ABC in the News
  • ICYMI-New York State Paid Sick Leave Webinar Recording
  • Reminder-New Travel Guidelines
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Wednesday, October 28th Merit Messenger

  • New York State Paid Sick Leave Webinar
  • Upstate Rebar is the First 2021 Renewal!
  • OSHA Issues FAQs on N95 Respirator Effectiveness Against Coronavirus
  • ABC in the News
  • 2020 Empire State Chapter Annual Meeting
  • Register Today for ABC Empire State Chapter’s First Ever Big Buck Competition
  • Upcoming ABC Empire State Chapter Training’s
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Wednesday, October 21st Merit Messenger

  • FAQ Released on New York State Paid Sick Leave Law
  • Updated List of States on the Travel Advisory
  • ICYMI-Federal DOL Changes COVID-19 Paid Family Leave Webinar Recap
  • ABC in the News-Business groups endorse GOP candidates
  • Upcoming Webinars
  • Register Today for ABC Empire State Chapter’s First Ever Big Buck Competition
  • Upcoming ABC Empire State Chapter Training’s
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Tuesday, October 13th Merit Messenger

  • SBA, Treasury Release Updated PPP Guidance
  • PRO Act Webinar Recap
  • ICYMI – OSHA Issues New FAQs on the Agency’s Injury and Illness Reporting Requirements
  • ABC Empire State Chapter First Ever Big Buck Competition
  • Upcoming Webinars
  • Upcoming ABC Empire State Chapter Training’s
  • Empire Chapter Resources
  • ABC Action App

Tuesday, October 6th Merit Messenger

  • OSHA Issues New FAQs on the Agency’s Injury and Illness Reporting Requirements
  • Premium Credits Related to COVID 19 ERISA Fiduciary Rules
  • New York contractors ask Gov. Cuomo to repeal state Scaffold Law
  • New York’s New Sick Leave Law: 11 Things Employers Need To Know As Benefit Kicks In
  • Upcoming Webinars
  • 2020 Empire State Chapter Annual Meeting
  • Upcoming ABC Empire State Chapter Training’s
  • October, November, and December Tool Box Talks
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Tuesday, September 29th Merit Messenger

  • Reminder: New York State’s New Paid Sick Leave Law Starts 9/30/20
  • Upcoming Webinars
  • 2020 Empire State Chapter Annual Meeting
  • Call for Nominations
  • Upcoming ABC Empire State Chapter Training’s
  • October, November, and December Tool Box Talks
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Special Edition Merit Messenger👈

  • New York State’s New Paid Sick Leave Law Starts 9/30/20
  • DOL Issues Ruling on Federal Paid Sick Leave
  • PRO Act Overview

Tuesday, September 15th Merit Messenger

  • Construction Safety Week; September 14-18
  • U.S. DOL Clarifies Paid Leave Requirements Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA)
  • The PRO Act and its Negative Impact on Merit Shop Contractors
  • Upcoming Webinar on Updates of the PRO Act
  • 2020 Empire State Chapter Annual Meeting
  • Call for Nominations
  • Upcoming ABC Empire State Chapter Training’s
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Tuesday, September 8th Merit Messenger

  • 2020 Empire State Chapter Annual Meeting
  • Call for Nominations
  • Upcoming Webinar
  • Upcoming Training
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Tuesday, September 1st Merit Messenger

  • DOL Posts New FAQS on Eligibility for Paid Leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act as Schools Reopen
  • CTCNYS Fall 2020 Apprenticeship Classes Registration
  • DOL Publishes Guidance on Tracking Compensable Hours for Remote Work
  • DOL to Offer Online Prevailing Wage Seminars in September
  • SBA & Treasury Issue Additional PPP Guidance
  • CISC Releases Updated COVID-19 Prevention, Preparedness and Response Plan for Construction
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Tuesday, August 25th Merit Messenger

  • A Message From Jeff Albert on the Fall Semester
  • CTCNYS Fall 2020 Apprenticeship Classes Registration Open
  • Register for Core Classes
  • Custom Training Classes
  • CISC Releases Updated COVID-19 Prevention, Preparedness and Response Plan for Construction
  • NYC Announces New PLA on Certain Public Projects
  • U.S. Department of Labor to Offer Online Prevailing Wage Seminars in September
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Tuesday, August 18th Merit Messenger

  • Court Ruling Regarding FFCRA
  • Custom Training Classes
  • CTCNYS Fall 2020 Apprenticeship Classes Registration Open
  • Register for Core Classes
  • Stimulus 4 On Hold
  • President Trump Signs Executive Orders
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Tuesday, August 11th Merit Messenger

  • State of the State With Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt
  • ABC “New COVID-19 Paid Leave Issues for Employers as the Country Reopens” Webinar Archive
  • SBA & Treasury Release PPP Additional Guidance
  • Updated List of States on The Travel Advisory
  • CTCNYS Fall 2020 Apprenticeship Classes Registration Open
  • Register for Core Classes
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Tuesday, July 28th Merit Messenger 

  • DOL Issues Additional Compliance Guidance for Reopening Workplaces
  • OSHA Adds New Topic to FAQ’s
  • Updated List of States on The Travel Advisory
  • Know Your Risk During COVID-19
  • We Want To Know What You Think
  • Upcoming Webinars
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Thursday, July 16th Merit Messenger

  • A Travel Ban and Paid Sick Leave: What Do You Do?
  • Updated List of States on The Travel Advisory
  • OSHA’s FAQs Related to COVID-19
  • Know Your Risk During COVID-19
  • Upcoming Webinars
  • Electrical Code Change
  • Empire Chapter Resources

DOB to Begin Fining for COVID Violations

Governor Cuomo Updates Travel Guidelines With Addition Of 8 States

Tuesday, June 30th Merit Messenger

  • New York State Voluntary Travel and Paid Sick Leave
  • Additional DOL COVID-19 Guidance: Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) Federal Paid Leave
  • Primary Election Recap
  • The PPP Lender Match Tool & Application Deadline is Today
  • Revisions to PPP Loan Forgiveness
  • Electrical Code Change
  • STEP Safety Management System
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Tuesday, June 23rd Merit Messenger

  • TODAY is Primary Election Day!
  • IMPORTANT UPDATE: New Reporting & Recordkeeping Obligations for NY Prevailing Wage Contractors
  • Scaffold Law Moratorium Case Letter
  • IDA Emergency Loan Program Bill
  • Further OSHA Reopening Guidance
  • Construction Input Prices Rise in May
  • Electrical Code Change
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Tuesday, June 16th Merit Messenger

  • DOL Issues Q&A About Face Coverings, Surgical Masks and Respirators in the Workplace
  • New PPP Interim Final Rule
  • Non-PPP Financial Relief Options for Contractors
  • ABC Legislative Week
  • June Toolbox Talks
  • ABC Virtual Training

Tuesday, June 9th Merit Messenger

  • Paycheck Protection Program Update
  • Update on NLRB 2019 Final Election Rule Legal Decision
  • Phase One Reopening: Safely Restarting Construction Activity in NYC
  • June Toolbox Talks
  • June is National Safety Month

Tuesday, June 2nd Merit Messenger

  • June is National Safety Month
  • OSHA Releases Agency and Industry-specific COVID-19 Resource Guide
  • Federal Labor Law Poster-Time Off For Voting Update
  • Agencies Issue New Interim Final Rules on PPP Loan Forgiveness and Loan Review Process
  • ABC Webinar Series
  • ABC Virtual Training
  • Empire Chapter COVID-19 Resources

Tuesday, May 26th Merit Messenger

  • The Safe & Healthy Construction Pledge
  • ABC World Class Safety- STEP
  • ABC Virtual Leadership Training
  • ABC Webinar Series
  • ABC Empire Chapter COVID-19 Resources

Tuesday, May 19th Merit Messenger

  • WNY Region Starts Phase 1 Reopening Today
  • STEP Into Safety
  • ABC Webinar Series
  • PPP Loan Forgiveness Application and Additional Guidance
  • ABC Virtual Leadership Training
  • Empire Chapter COVID-19 Resources

Reopening Construction: What You Need to Know 5/15/20

  • New Construction Guidelines Released
  • Upcoming Webinars
  • Empire Chapter COVID-19 Resources

NY Reopening Update From Brian Sampson 5/12/20 Update

  • NY Reopening Update From Brian Sampson
  • Employee Retention Tax Credit Revised Guidance and New Legislation Introduced
  • Helpful Tip of the Day – Recent USDOL Action
  • New at the CDC
  • Empire Chapter Resources
  • ABC Back to Work Safely

ABC Back to Work Safely 5/8/20 Update

  • ABC Back to Work Safely
  • Upcoming Trainings With Jason Ashlaw
  • Empire Chapter Resources
  • ABC Sends Letter Opposing Apprenticeship Mandate
  • PPP Safe Harbor Date Extended to May 14th

COVID-19 5/5/20 Update

  • Governor Cuomo Phased Reopening Of Business
  • U.S. DOL National Online Dialogue – Opening America’s Workplaces Again
  • Upcoming and Previously Recorded Webinars
  • Empire Chapter Resources
  • Fifth Class of Core and Construction Craft Laborers Graduate
  • Upcoming Trainings With Jason Ashlaw

COVID-19 5/1/20 Update

  • Governor Cuomo Outlines Additional Guidelines for phased plan to Re-open NY
  • OSHA Alert; COVID-19 Guidance for the Construction Workforce
  • Federal Agencies Issue COVID-19 Relief for Employee Benefit Plans
  • Discussions Continue on Phase 4 Recovery Package
  • Upcoming Trainings With Jason Ashlaw
  • Assemblyman Chris Tague Questions I-88 Construction PLA

Empire Chapter COVID-19 4/28/20 Update

  • Governor Cuomo Outlines Plan to Re-open Construction
  • Trump Signs $310 Billion Extension to PPP Loans
  • Upcoming Trainings With Jason Ashlaw
  • Upcoming and Previously Recorded Webinars
  • Empire Chapter Resources

Special Edition Merit Messenger: Governor Cuomo Announces Plan to Reopen Construction 4/27/20

  • Plan to Reopen Construction
  • Supplemental Health and Safety Plan to address Novel Coronavirus
    COVID 19
  • Webinar: Bringing Your Project Back Online: Tips to Ensure a Smooth Restart

COVID-19 4/23/20 Update

  • Paycheck Protection Program Details Emerging
  • Upcoming Trainings with Jason Ashlaw
  • Upcoming and Previously Recorded Webinars
  • DirectAdvisors Podcast
  • Empire Chapter Resources

COVID-19 4/21/20 Update

  • Paycheck Protection Program Deal Emerging
  • Upcoming Training with Jason Ashlaw
  • Associated Builders and Contractors Announces National COVID-19 Safety Stand-down
  • Returning Employees to Work After a COVID-19 Positive Test
  • COVID-19 Guidance for Employers and Employees in the workplace

COVID-19 4/16/20 Update

  • Governor Cuomo Issues New Executive Order on Face Coverings
  • New York State Department of Health Issues Interim Guidance on Face Coverings
  • CDC Guidance on Reusing Face Masks
  • ABC Action – Urge Congress to Fund Additional Small Business Relief
  • Returning Employees to Work After a COVID-19 Positive Test
  • COVID-19 Guidance for Employers and Employees in the workplace
  • OSHA 10 Training with Jason Ashlaw
  • ABC National COVID-19 Safety Stand-down
  • COVID-19 Podcast
  • COVID-19 Web Trainings

COVID-19 4/14/20 Update

  • Governor Cuomo Orders Employers to Provide Essential Workers with Masks
  • Guidance on Crisis Standards of Care Decontamination Recommendations
  • Register for the Infection Control Handwashing Certificate Course
  • Register for Pandemic Influenza Certificate Course
  • Virtual Training for Employees

COVID-19 4/12/20 Update

  • Cuomo Issues Executive Order to Mandate Face Masks
  • CDC Guidelines on Sanitation and Reuse of masks
  • CDC Guidelines on Face Coverings
  • Free OSHA Certification Courses

COVID-19 4/9/20 Update

  • Empire State Development Publishes Language on Non-Essential Construction
  • NYS PAUSE Extended through April 29th
  • Essential Employee Verification Letter
  • OSHA 10 Video Training
  • Keep Your Workforce Trained with ABC Empire State

COVID-19 4/6/20 Update

  • Safety Message from Jason Ashlaw
  • Best Practices for Members Continuing to Work
  • Essential Employee Verification Letter
  • Best Practices for Members with COVID-19 Positive Employees
  • Emergency Preparedness & Response Resources from ABC National
  • COVID-19 Tool Box Talks
  • COVID-19 Webinars
  • DirectAdvisors Podcast

Keep Your Workforce Moving Forward During the COVID-19 Crisis

  • Empire Chapter Virtual Training
  • Paycheck Protection Program Information
  • PPP Webinar

COVID-19 4/2/20 Update

  • Paycheck Protection Program Begins Friday
  • COVID-19 Webinars
  • Previously Recorded Webinars
  • COVID-19 Web Training Courses
  • Empire Chapter Offers Supplemental Health & Safety Plan
  • How to Shut Down a Project

Stimulus CARES Act Establishes $349 Billion Paycheck Protection Program

Wed, Apr 1, 2020

COVID-19 3/31/20 Update

  • In Case You Missed It: ESD Clarification
  • COVID-19 Webinars
  • Supplemental Safety Plans to Address COVID-19
  • COVID-19 Stimulus Phase 3
  • COVID-19 Tool Box Talks
  • NYC DOB Halts Non-Essential Construction
  • Health Benefits for New Yorkers
  • SBA Loans

Clarification from Empire State Development

  • Additional Supporting Language for Executive Order 2026

ESD Offers New Clarification on Local Government, Municipal and School Construction

  • Clarification on which construction is no longer essential

COVID-19 3/29/20 Update

  • Cuomo Suspends Non-Essential Construction
  • How to Shut Down a Project
  • NYS Pause Extended Until April 15th
  • Federal Stimulus Package Signed
  • Empire Chapter Offers Supplemental Health and Safety Plan to Address COVID-19
  • Previously Recorded Webinars
  • Small Business Administration Loan Information

URGENT UPDATE: Essential Construction Announcement

Fri, Mar 27, 2020

  • Cuomo Redefines Construction as an Essential Business

ABC Calls on Governor Cuomo to Keep Construction Essential

Thu, Mar 26, 2020

Empire Chapter COVID-19 3/26/20 Update

  • Safety message from Jason Ashlaw
  • COVID-19 Construction Best Practices
  • COVID-19 Webinars
  • Senate Approves Federal Emergency Aid Package
  • SBA Loan Information
  • Empire State Development Essential Business Guidelines
  • NYS Offers Mental Health Hotline
  • ABC in the News
  • COVID-19 Tool Box Talks

Empire Chapter COVID-19 3/24/20 Update

  • VOTER VOICE Stop the Expansion of PW
  • COVID-19 Webinars
  • NYC BOD Halts In-Person Appointments
  • Voter Voice- COVID-19 Emergency Aid Package – Contact your US Senators
  • OSHA Recording and Reporting of COVID-19
  • Empire Chapter Resources List
  • COVID-19 Tool Box Talks

IMPORTANT: COVID-19 Sunday Update

Sun, Mar 22, 2020

  • Highlights: Construction is an Essential Business
  • 100% workforce reduction
  • COVID Tool Box Talks
  • Empire Chapter Resources
  • Federal Government Passes Paid Sick Leave
  • NYS Passes Paid Sick Leave
  • NYC BOD Takes COVID-19 Precauctions
  • COVID-19 Webinars

COVID-19 Saturday Update

Sat, Mar 21, 2020

  • NYS PAUSE Program

COVID-19 Update: Laws, Safety Practices, Compliance, Webinars

Thu, Mar 19, 2020

  • Construction Excluded From Workforce Reduction Mandate After Empire Chapter Advocacy Efforts
  • Empire Chapter COVID-19 Safety Update
  • Empire Chapter Best Practices List
  • Empire Chapter Resources
  • COVID-19 Tool Box Talks
  • Peckar & Abramson, P.C. Coronavirus Guidance for Contractors: Contracts, Compliance and Costs
  • Lawmakers Pass Emergency Coronavirus Paid Sick Leave Bill
  • Deployment of 1,000-Bed Hospital Ship ‘USNS Comfort’ to New York Harbor
  • Vice President Pence Asks Construction Companies to Donate Masks
  • 2 COVID-19 Webinars

COVID-19: Construction and the Coronavirus Crisis

Tue, Mar 17, 2020

  • Empire Chapter Resources
  • OSHA Guidance Related to COVID-19
  • New York State Department of Health has issued the following guidance for employers
  • 5 Steps to Prepare for COVID-19
  • New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) issued a Service Notice
  • 3 COVID-19 Webinars

Special Edition COVID-19 Merit Messenger

Tuesday, March 10th

  • Recording workplace exposures to Coronavirus
  • COVID-19 Information from the Centers for Disease Control
  • ABC general counsel Littler Mendelson’s coronavirus webpage, which includes the resources
  • The Latest News from the New York State Government