• COVID-19 Information & Resources

    As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, your Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce is continually working on assisting our members and business community the best way we can. Below you will find multiple resources:

  • NY HERO Act - The Airborne Infectious Disease Exposure Prevention Standard

    July 13, 2021

    On May 5, 2021, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the New York Health and Essential Rights Act (NY HERO Act) into law. The law mandates extensive new workplace health and safety protections in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of the NY HERO Act is to protect employees against exposure and disease during a future airborne infectious disease outbreak.

     

    New York employers have until August 5, 2021, to adopt workplace safety plans, in accordance with the NY HERO Act. 

     

    The New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) has released model standards applicable to all employers. 

     

    Please click here to download the Airborne Infectious Disease Exposure Prevention Standard document. For more information and industry specific templates, please click here.

  • Governor Cuomo Signs Legislation to Permit Use of Municipal Space for Outdoor Dining

    July 7, 2021

    Governor Andrew M. Cuomo yesterday signed legislation (S.6353-A/A.7733) that will allow restaurants to utilize municipal spaces like sidewalks and streets for outdoor dining. First granted under an executive order by the Governor, this law allows restaurants to continue using these public spaces for another year as they recover from the economic devastation brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

     

    The continued use of public spaces builds upon other supports provided to these establishments by the state, including the $800 million COVID-19 Pandemic Small Business Recovery Grant Program. 

     

    Please click here to read the full announcement.

     

  • Governor Cuomo Announces New York Ending COVID-19 State Disaster Emergency on June 24

    June 24, 2021

    Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced yesterday, June 23, 2021, that New York will end the state disaster emergency declared on March 7, 2020 to fight COVID-19. The State of Emergency will expire after Thursday, June 24, 2021.

     

    Federal CDC guidance will remain in effect, which includes masks for unvaccinated individuals, as well as all riders on public transit and in certain settings, such as health care, nursing homes, correctional facilities, and homeless shelters.

     

    Please click here to read the full announcement.

     

  • Governor Cuomo Announces COVID-19 Restrictions Lifted as 70% of Adult New Yorkers Have Received First Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine

    June 15, 2021

    Today, Governor Cuomo has announced that COVID-19 restrictions are lifted immediately as 70 percent of New Yorkers aged 18 or older have received the first dose of their COVID-19 vaccination series.

     
    The State's health guidance and New York Forward industry specific guidelines—including social gathering limits, capacity restrictions, social distancing, cleaning and disinfection, health screening, and contact information for tracing—are now optional for retail, food services, offices, gyms and fitness centers, amusement and family entertainment, hair salons, barber shops and personal care services, among other commercial settings.
    Please click here to read the full announcement.

  • NYS DOL Guidance on Use of Paid Sick Leave for COVID-19 Vaccine Recovery Time

    June 1, 2021

    The New York State Department of Labor has issued guidance on Paid Sick Leave for COVID-19 Vaccination recovery time.

     

    Excerpt from NYS DOL Guidance document:

    Recent studies have found that workers were avoiding the COVID-19 vaccine due to a fear of missing a day of work, and thus a day of wages. While the side effects of the vaccine are usually rare, Section 196-b of the Labor Law allows employees to use sick leave “for mental or physical illness, injury, or health condition, regardless of whether it has been diagnosed or requires medical care at the time of the request for leave.” Therefore, employers are obligated to honor the employee’s desire to use accrued sick leave for the recovery of any side effects of the COVID-19 vaccination.

     

    Please click here to read this guidance.

     

  • Governor Cuomo Announces New York State to Adopt New CDC Guidance on Mask Use and Social Distancing for Fully Vaccinated Individuals

    May 17, 2021

    Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that beginning May 19, New York State will adopt the CDC's "Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People" for most business and public settings. Consistent with the CDC guidance, Pre-K to 12 schools, public transit, homeless shelters, correctional facilities, nursing homes, and healthcare settings will continue to follow the State's existing COVID-19 health guidelines until more New Yorkers are fully vaccinated.

     

    Please click here to read the full announcement.

  • SBA Breaking News Update: PPP General Funding Exhausted, CFI Funding Available

    May 5, 2021

    We received the below announcement from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), regarding the Paycheck Protection Program:
     
    After more than a year of operation and serving more than eight million small businesses, funding for the bi-partisan Paycheck Protection Program has been exhausted. The SBA will continue funding outstanding approved PPP applications, but new qualifying applications will only be funded through Community Financial Institutions, financial lenders who serve underserved communities. The SBA is committed to delivering economic aid through the many COVID relief programs it is currently administering and beyond.
     
    Per the Economic Aid Act, a Community Financial Institution (CFI) is one of the following types of lenders:
    • Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI)
    • Minority Depository Institution (MDI)
    • SBA Certified Development Corporation (CDC)
    • SBA Microloan Intermediary Lender

     

  • Governors Cuomo, Murphy and Lamont Announce Significant Easing Of COVID-19 Pandemic Restrictions on Businesses, Gatherings and Venues

    May 3, 2021
     
    Today Governor Cuomo, Governor Murphy (New Jersey) and Governor Lamont (Connecticut) announced that most industry capacity restrictions will be lifted beginning May 19, 2021. The announcement to ease the COVID-19 restrictions on the region's businesses, venues and gatherings came after progress in vaccinations and sustained reduction in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. 
     
    Please click here to read the full announcement.

     

  • SBA Funding Opportunity: Program for Investment in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME) has been posted

    April 29, 2021

    The Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced the 2021 Program for Investment in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME) funding opportunity. Please see below for the full announcement from the SBA.
     
    Please click here for additional details on this funding opportunity.

     

  • Governor Cuomo Announces State Will End Food and Beverage Service Curfew

    April 28, 2021

    Governor Cuomo announced today that the 12:00 am Food & Beverage Service Curfew will be removed for outside dining on May 17th, and for indoor dining on May 31st.
     
    In addition, it was announced that catered events can resume at residences beginning May 3rd, above the State's residential gathering limit of 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors, as long as the events are staffed by a professional, licensed caterer, permitted by the respective locality or municipality, and strictly adhere to health and safety guidance, including social and event gathering limits, masks, and social distancing.
     
    Please click here to read the full announcement.

     

  • Restaurant Revitalization Fund Application Opening for $28.6 Billion Announced by SBA Administrator Guzman

    April 27, 2021

    SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman today announced the U.S. Small Business Administration will begin registrations for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund on Friday, April 30, 2021, at 9:00 am and open applications on Monday, May 3, 2021, at 12:00 pm. The online application will remain open to any eligible establishment until all funds are exhausted. 
     
    Please see below for the full announcement.
     
    PRESS OFFICE
     
    Release Date: April 27, 2021               
    Release Number: 21-33          
    Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Blogs & Instagram
     
    SBA Administrator Guzman Announces Application Opening for $28.6 Billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund
     
    Fund prioritizes direct relief to women, veterans, and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, and includes $9.5 billion in set-asides for smaller businesses
     
    WASHINGTON - SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman today announced the U.S. Small Business Administration will begin registrations on Friday, April 30, 2021, at 9 a.m. EDT and open applications on Monday, May 3, 2021, at noon EDT for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. The online application will remain open to any eligible establishment until all funds are exhausted. 
     
    “Restaurants are the core of our neighborhoods and propel economic activity on main streets across the nation. They are among the businesses that have been hardest hit and need support to survive this pandemic. We want restaurants to know that help is here,” said Administrator Guzman. “The SBA has focused on the marketplace realities of our food and beverage businesses in designing the Restaurant Revitalization Fund to meet businesses where they are. And we are committed to equity to ensure our smaller and underserved businesses, which have suffered the most, can access this critical relief, recover, and grow more resilient.”
     
    Established under the American Rescue Plan, and signed into law by President Joe Biden on March 11, 2021, the Restaurant Revitalization Fund provides a total of $28.6 billion in direct relief funds to restaurants and other hard-hit food establishments that have experienced economic distress and significant operational losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This program will provide restaurants with funding equal to their pandemic-related revenue loss up to $10 million per business and no more than $5 million per physical location. Funds must be used for allowable expenses by March 11, 2023. 
     
    “Recognizing the great urgency to help restaurants keep their doors open – and with a clear mandate from Congress – the SBA worked at a breakneck speed and is excited to launch this program,” said Patrick Kelley, SBA Associate Administrator, Office of Capital Access. “From day one, we engaged with diverse stakeholders in the food industry community to make sure we built and delivered the program equitably, quickly, and efficiently.”
     
    In preparation, the SBA recommends qualifying applicants familiarize themselves with the application process in advance to ensure a smooth and efficient application experience, specifically by:
    • Registering for an account in advance at restaurants.sba.gov starting Friday, April 30, 2021, at 9 a.m. EDT.
    • Reviewing the official guidance, including program guide, frequently asked questions, and application sample.
    • Preparing the required documentation.
    • Working with a point-of-sale vendor or visiting restaurants.sba.gov to submit an application when the application portal opens. [Note: If an applicant is working with a point-of-sale vendor, they do not need to register beforehand on the site.]
    • Attending a live recorded virtual training webinar.
    • Tuesday, April 27 | 2:30 p.m. EDT | Register here
    • Wednesday, April 28 | 1 p.m. EDT | Register here
    • Wednesday, April 28 | 2:30 p.m. EDT | Register here
     
    For the first 21 days that the program is open, the SBA will prioritize funding applications from businesses owned and controlled by women, veterans, and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. All eligible applicants are encouraged to submit applications as soon as the portal opens. Following the 21 days, all eligible applications will be funded on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Consistent with the legislation and the intent of Congress, the SBA continues to take steps to ensure the equitable distribution of relief, particularly for the smallest businesses, by creating a $9.5 billion set-aside: $5 billion for applicants with 2019 gross receipts of not more than $500,000; $4 billion is set aside for applicants with 2019 gross receipts from $500,001 to $1,500,000; and $500 million for applicants with 2019 gross receipts not more than $50,000.

    For more information, visit sba.gov/restaurants or in Spanish at sba.gov/restaurantes.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start and grow their businesses. It delivers services to people through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

     

  • Updated COVID-19 Guidance for Outdoor Events, Offices, and other businesses

    April 26, 2021

    Governor Cuomo today released additional COVID-19 guidance on the reopening of outdoor event venues, casinos/gaming facilities, offices, and gyms & fitness centers.
     
    Here are some of the highlights:
     
    • Large-scale outdoor event venues can increase spectator capacity from 20% to 33% beginning May 19
    • Casinos and gaming facilities can increase capacity from 25% to 50% beginning May 15
    • Offices can increase capacity from 50% to 75% beginning May 15
    • Gyms/Fitness Centers outside of New York City can increase capacity from 33% to 50% beginning May 15
     
    Please click here to read the full announcement.

     

  • SBA Shuttered Venue Operators Grant Application to Open Tomorrow 4/24

    April 23, 2021

    The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced that the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant application portal will open tomorrow, April 24, 2021.
     
    Updated guidance and documents will be provided today. Please stay up to date at www.sba.gov/svogrant.
     
    Interested applicants should also register for an account in advance, if they have not yet done so, by visiting: https://svograntportal.sba.gov.

     

  • J-1 Visitor Exchange Program Update

    April 19, 2021
     
     
    The J-1 Visitor Exchange Program (J-1 Program) has been a moving target since last year. Many thanks to Senator Gillibrand’s office and Congresswoman Stefanik’s office for helping us reach out to the White House, the CDC and the Department of State. They have provided the guidance below.
     
    The J-1 Program has been reinstated as outlined below by the United States Department of State:
     
    “Presidential Proclamation 10052, which temporarily suspended the entry of certain H-1B, H-2B, J (for certain categories within the Exchange Visitor Program), and L nonimmigrants, expired on March 31, 2021. Visa applicants who have not yet been interviewed or scheduled for an interview will have their applications prioritized and processed in accordance with existing phased resumption of visa services guidance. Visa applicants who were previously refused visas due to the restrictions of Presidential Proclamation 10052 may reapply by submitting a new application including a new fee. The resumption of routine visa services, prioritized after services to U.S. citizens, is occurring on a post-by-post basis, consistent with the Department’s guidance for safely returning our workforce to Department facilities. U.S. Embassies and Consulates have continued to provide emergency and mission-critical visa services since March 2020 and will continue to do so as they are able. As post-specific conditions improve, our missions will begin providing additional services, culminating eventually in a complete resumption of routine visa services. Applicants should check the website of their nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for updates on the services that post is currently offering.”
     
    We continually reach out to our Federal Elected Officials on any updates from the CDC and here is the latest information:
     
    “CDC recommends delaying international travel until fully vaccinated, but does not require vaccination for entry to the U.S.
     
    Before flying to the U.S., per CDC’s Order, all air passengers 2 years or older arriving to the U.S. from another country are required to get tested no more than 3 days before their flight departs, and to present the negative result or to present documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 in the past 3 months to the airline before boarding the flight, regardless of vaccination status. More information on the requirements of this Order can be found on the Frequently Asked Questions webpage.
     
    After arriving in the U.S., individuals who are fully vaccinated with an FDA-authorized vaccine are encouraged to follow CDC’s recommendations for traveling safely and get tested 3-5 days after travel. They do not need to self-quarantine after arriving in the U.S., and do not need to get tested before leaving the U.S. unless their destination requires it. Individuals who are not fully vaccinated and must travel, should follow CDC’s recommendations for unvaccinated people international travelers arriving in a U.S. jurisdiction:
     
    1. A post-arrival test three to five (3-5) days after arrival at destination, combined with self-monitoring and a seven (7)-day period of self-quarantine. The seven (7)-day period should be completed even if the test is negative. In the absence of testing, this period should be extended to 10 days.
    2. If the test is positive, individual should isolate to protect others from getting infected.
    3. Avoiding being around people with people at higher risk for severe illness for 14 days, regardless of testing.
    4. Follow all state and local recommendations or requirements after travel.
     
    Please monitor CDC’s COVID-19 Travel website for updates to CDC’s travel health guidance.”
     
    We will keep you updated as we get more information.

     

  • SBA Announces Official Restaurant Revitalization Fund Application and Guidelines

    April 17, 2021

    The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has released the official Restaurant Revitalization Fund application and guidelines.
     
    Please see below for the news release and links to access the application and guidelines.
     
    PRESS OFFICE
     
    Release Date: April 17, 2021               
    Release Number: 21-28                    
    Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Blogs & Instagram
     
     
    SBA Announces Official Restaurant Revitalization Fund
    Application and Guidelines
    Economic Relief Prioritized for Underserved Communities
     
    WASHINGTON – SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman today announced key details on application requirements, eligibility, and a program guide for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RFF). The restaurant industry has been among the hardest-hit sectors during the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. To help bring jobs back and revive the industry, the American Rescue Plan, signed into law by President Joe Biden, established the $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA will administer the funds to the hardest-hit small restaurants.
     
    “Today, we are starting the process to help restaurants and bars across the country devastated by the pandemic, and this is our message: Help is here. With the launch of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, we’re prioritizing funding to the hardest-hit small businesses – irreplaceable gathering places in our neighborhoods and communities that need a lifeline now to get back on their feet,” said SBA Administrator Guzman. “And, thanks to clear directives from Congress, we’re rolling out this program to make sure that these businesses can meet payroll, purchase supplies, and get what they need in place to transition to today’s COVID-restricted marketplace.”
     
    Administrator Guzman emphasized, “We’re also focused on ensuring that the RRF program’s application process is streamlined and free of burdensome, bureaucratic hurdles – while still maintaining robust oversight. Under my leadership, the SBA aims to be as entrepreneurial as the entrepreneurs we serve – and that means meeting every small business where they are, and giving them the support they need to recover, rebuild and thrive.”
     
    Under this announcement, details on application requirements, eligibility, and a program guide are now available in English at www.sba.gov/restaurants or in Spanish at www.sba.gov/restaurantes.
     
    Ahead of the application launch and over the next two weeks, the SBA will establish a seven-day pilot period for the RRF application portal and conduct extensive outreach and training. The pilot period will be used to address technical issues ahead of the public launch. Participants in this pilot will be randomly selected from existing PPP borrowers in priority groups for RRF and will not receive funds until the application portal is open to the public. 
     
    Following the pilot, the application portal will be opened to the public. The official application launch date will be announced at a later date. For the first 21 days that the program is open, the SBA will prioritize reviewing applications from small businesses owned by women, veterans, and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Following the 21-day period, all eligible applicants are encouraged to submit applications.
     
    The groundwork for this announcement is the result of a comprehensive effort to reach out to diverse stakeholders in order to understand the needs and barriers restaurants face in accessing emergency relief aid.
     
    “Local restaurants and bars are being served very good news today,” said Erika Polmar, Executive Director of the Independent Restaurant Coalition. “These guidelines were crafted by the SBA after conversations with independent restaurant and bar operators across the country. We are grateful to the SBA for their hard work to make this process as accessible as possible in a short period of time. It is clear the SBA and the Biden Administration care deeply about ensuring businesses struggling the most can quickly and effectively use this relief program, and we look forward to continued conversations and collaboration to ensure this fund works as intended for the independent restaurant and bar community.”
     
    Community business leaders from underserved communities also welcomed RRF assistance as much-needed economic relief and are working with their broad membership bases to navigate the grant application process.
     
    “In addition to historically having less operating liquidity and revenue than almost any other small business demographic, Black-owned restaurants received significantly less stimulus funding during the COVID-19 pandemic, heightening challenges and leading to disproportionate closures,” said Ron Busby, Sr., president and CEO, U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. “The USBC believes this initiative and collaboration with the SBA will bring needed resources and relief to these often underserved businesses to aid in stabilization, recovery and ultimately, strengthen our economy.”
     
    In addition to restaurant groups and leading advocacy groups for underserved business communities, the SBA has engaged national and state trade associations, and other small business stakeholders in recent weeks to understand their concerns about relief programs.
     
    “Small and independent craft breweries are vibrant community gathering places that can be found in nearly every congressional district in the U.S. and contribute to manufacturing, hospitality, retail, tourism, and agricultural industries,” said Bob Pease, president and CEO, Brewers Association. “We are pleased to work with the SBA to promote the Restaurant Revitalization Fund landing page and its available resources, and assist the breweries hit hardest by COVID-19 secure much needed additional relief to help them survive the pandemic and prepare for the restart of the economy.”
     
    At all levels, the SBA will continue engaging with stakeholder communities to inform and design delivery of financial assistance programs. As the SBA builds and prepares to roll out the program, this dedicated SBA website is the best source for up-to-date information for eligible restaurants interested in the RRF.

     

  • Curfew Extended for Food/Beverage Establishments and In-Person & Catered Events

    April 14, 2021

    Governor Cuomo has announced that the curfew for food and beverage establishments will be moved from 11 pm. to midnight effective Monday, April 19. The curfew for catered events will move from midnight to 1 am.

    In addition, spectators will be allowed at horse and auto races at 20 percent capacity, beginning Thursday, April 22. Spectators will be subject to the State's strict guidance, which is currently in effect for other professional sports competitions with fans.

    Please click here to read the full announcement.

     

  • Updated Guidance on Outdoor Amusements, Graduations, and Proms

    April 13, 2021

    Thank you to Warren County Administrator Ryan Moore for passing along updates on outdoor amusements, graduations, and proms.
     
    Click here for Outdoor Amusements, which includes amusement parks, theme parks, water parks and outdoor rides/games/attractions (i.e. outdoor trampolines, bumper cars/boats, gocarts). Capacity is limited to 33%, there are standard requirements for social distancing/masks/disinfection/health screening (temperature checks and screening questionnaires are mandatory, negative testing/proof of vaccination is not mandatory). These businesses must submit a Safety Plan to Warren County Public Health within two weeks of reopening unless they are a temporary or traveling attraction (i.e. a carnival), in which case they need to submit a Safety Plan at least 14 days in advance of opening. Sub-activities within Outdoor Amusement businesses for which guidance has already been issued are subject to that particular guidance; these activities include retail, office work, food services, sports, pools, movie theaters, performing arts/entertainment, and indoor amusements (i.e. arcades).
     
    Click here for graduations/commencements and proms/balls. The graduation portion is effective beginning May 1st and the prom portion is effective June 1st. There is a helpful grid on page 6 outlining requirements for outdoor graduations of different sizes and on page 7 for indoor graduations of different sizes. Much like performing arts/entertainment, a graduation could be held for more than 500 people outdoors and more than 150 people indoors as long as the venue is large enough and certain event safety requirements are met. The prom/ball guidance begins on page 8.  
     

     

  • SBA to Open Shuttered Venues Operator Grants for Applications on April 8 at 12 p.m. EDT

    April 8, 2021

    Below please find a press release from the Small Business Administration (SBA) announcing the opening of the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) application portal, today April 8th at 12:00 pm.
     

     

    PRESS OFFICE
     
    Release Date: April 7, 2021               
    Release Number: 21-28                    
    Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Blogs & Instagram
     
    SBA to Open Shuttered Venue Operators Grants
    for Applications on April 8 at 12 p.m. EDT
    Help is here with $16.2 billion for venues, theatres, and more
     
    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration will officially open the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) application portal tomorrow, April 8, 2021 at 12 p.m. EDT for operators of live venues, live performing arts organizations, museums and movie theatres, as well as live venue promoters, theatrical producers and talent representatives to apply for critical economic relief, as those eligible entities are some of the first that had to shutter their doors a year ago in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
     
    “Concerts, plays, dance performances, movie premieres, museum exhibits – these are the lifeblood of culture and community, and often the anchor for travel, tourism and neighborhood food and retail stores. We know that for the stage and venue operators across the nation that help make this culture happen, the pandemic has been devastating. Too many have been forced to lower the final curtain on their businesses. Today, with more than $16.2 billion available through the Shuttered Venue Operators Grants, help is here,” said SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman. “The SBA is committed to moving as quickly as possible to deliver this vital funding effectively and equitably - ensuring relief goes to those venue operators whose revenues have been most impacted by the pandemic.” 
     
    The SVOG program was appropriated more than $16.2 billion for grants via the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits and Venues Act and the American Rescue Plan Act. Of these funds, at least than $2 billion is reserved for eligible SVOG applications with up to 50 full-time employees. Eligible applicants may qualify for grants equal to 45% of their gross earned revenue up to a maximum amount of $10 million for a single grant.
     
    The SBA is accepting SVOG applications on a first-in, first-out basis and allocating applicants to respective priority periods as it receives applications. The first 14 days of SVOG awards, which are expected to begin in late April, will be dedicated to entities that suffered a 90% or greater revenue loss between April and December 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The second 14 days (days 15-28) will include entities that suffered a 70% or greater revenue loss between April and December 2020. Following those periods, SVOG awards will include entities that suffered a 25% or greater revenue loss between one quarter of 2019 and the corresponding quarter of 2020.
     
    Prior to the opening tomorrow for SVOG applications, the SBA has hosted a national informational webinar (archived recording) to highlight the application process for potential eligible entities. The agency also provided recurrent program updates and information via frequently asked questions, additional video tutorials, an application checklist, and eligibility requirements through SBA’s dedicated SVOG website - www.sba.gov/svogrant - and targeted outreach to potential applicants.
     
    As the SBA built the SVOG program from the ground up, it worked closely with its federal partners, including those dedicated to the affected industries such as the National Endowment for the Arts and Institute of Museum and Library Services, and Congressional authors in analyzing the legislation and Congress’ intent. The agency also consulted industry partners, such as the National Independent Venue Association, National Association of Theatre Owners, National Independent Talent Organization, Performing Arts Alliance, Broadway League, American Alliance of Museums and the Associations of Art Museum Directors, Children’s Museums, Science and Technology Centers, and Zoos & Aquariums. The SBA’s collaboration with these organizations has been vital to SBA’s understanding of and guidance for potential SVOG applicants and the agency looks forward to their continued partnership during the launch of the program.
     
    In addition, SBA’s resource partners, including SCORE Mentors, Small Business Development Centers, Women’s Business Centers and Veterans Business Outreach Centers, are available to provide entities with individual guidance on their applications. Applicants can find a local resource partner via SBA’s website at www.sba.gov/local-assistance or via a zip code at www.sba.gov/localassistance. (Per federal grant program guidelines that the same and equal information needs to be provided to each applicant, SBA’s team members are limited on responses they can provide to individual, specific questions regarding SVOG eligibility, potential grant amount, or other detailed information.)
     
    ###
     
    About the U.S. Small Business Administration
    The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start and grow their businesses. It delivers services to people through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
     

     

  • Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Deadline Extended to May 31, 2021

    March 30, 2021

    We are excited to announce that President Biden signed into law extending the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) deadline to May 31, 2021.  This will help many of our businesses in our region with more time to apply for their second PPP loan.
     
    This started about two weeks ago with a call from your Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce to Congresswoman Stefanik, who the very next day co-sponsored a bill in the House of Representatives to extend the PPP deadline.  It passed the House shortly thereafter.  Many thanks to Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for supporting the bill in the Senate immediately after passage in the House.
     
    Always forward.
     
    Blessings,
    
     
    Michael Bittel
    President/CEO
    Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce

     

  • Governor Cuomo Announces New Yorkers 30 Years of Age and Older Will Be Eligible to Receive COVID-19 Vaccine

    March 29, 2021

    Governor Cuomo has announced that New Yorkers 30 years of age and older will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine as of Tuesday, March 30, 2021. Please click here to read the full announcement.
     
    In addition, New Yorkers 16 years of age and older can begin to schedule appointments to get vaccinated beginning April 6, 2021.
     
    As a reminder, please visit am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/ to schedule your appointment. A mass vaccination site has been set up at Aviation Mall, located at 578 Aviation Road in Queensbury, in the old Sears location. Appointments are required.

     

  • SBA to Increase Lending Limit for COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans

    March 24, 2021

    The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today that they are increasing the maximum amount small businesses and non-profit organizations can borrow through its COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program.
     
    Starting the week of April 6, 2021, the SBA is raising the loan limit for the COVID-19 EIDL program from 6-months of economic injury with a maximum loan amount of $150,000 to up to 24-months of economic injury with a maximum loan amount of $500,000. 
     
    Please see below for the full press release.
    Release Date: March 24, 2021                 
    Contact: Press_Office@sba.gov
    Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Blogs & Instagram
     
    SBA to Increase Lending Limit for COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans
     
    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration is increasing the maximum amount small businesses and non-profit organizations can borrow through its COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. Starting the week of April 6, 2021, the SBA is raising the loan limit for the COVID-19 EIDL program from 6-months of economic injury with a maximum loan amount of $150,000 to up to 24-months of economic injury with a maximum loan amount of $500,000.
     
    “More than 3.7 million businesses employing more than 20 million people have found financial relief through SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans, which provide low-interest emergency working capital to help save their businesses. However, the pandemic has lasted longer than expected, and they need larger loans. Many have called on SBA to remove the $150,000 cap. We are here to help our small businesses and that is why I’m proud to more than triple the amount of funding they can access ,” said SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman.
     
    Businesses that receive a loan subject to the current limits do not need to submit a request for an increase at this time. SBA will reach out directly via email and provide more details about how businesses can request an increase closer to the April 6 implementation date. Any new loan applications and any loans in process when the new loan limits are implemented will automatically be considered for loans covering 24 months of economic injury up to a maximum of $500,000.
     
    This new relief builds on SBA’s previous March 12, 2021 announcement that the agency would extend deferment periods for all disaster loans, including COVID-19 EIDLs, until 2022 to offer more time for businesses to build back. In order to shift all EIDL payments to 2022, SBA will extend the first payment due date for disaster loans made in 2020 to 24-months from the date of the note and to 18-months from the date of the note for all loans made in the calendar year 2021.
     
    Questions about SBA COVID-19 EIDL and disaster loan payments can be emailed to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov or directed to SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (1-800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard of hearing).
     
    ###
     
    About the U.S. Small Business Administration
    The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 
     

  • Governor Cuomo Announces Quarantine for Domestic Travel Will no Longer be Required Starting April 1st

    March 11, 2021

    Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that domestic travelers will no longer be required to quarantine after entering New York from another U.S. State or U.S. Territory starting April 1st. While no longer required, the NYS Department of Health still recommends quarantine after domestic travel as an added precaution.

    We sent an email out earlier this morning with information regarding travel quarantine updates. This announcement is a more recent update and takes effect on April 1, 2021.

    Please click here to read the full announcement.

     

    Updated Quarantine Restrictions for Travelers Arriving in New York State Following Out of State Travel

    March 10, 2021

    New York State has issued interim guidance for quarantine restrictions on travelers arriving in New York State following out of state travel. This is an update from the previously issued interim guidance from November 3, 2020.

    The updates include:

    • Quarantine criteria for travelers to New York from non-contiguous states and other countries. In this guidance, contiguous states to New York include Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Vermont.
    • New Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) requirements for travel from other countries
    • Updated links

    Please click here to review this updated interim guidance.

    In addition, New York State has issued updated guidance on quarantine for community persons exposed to COVID-19, and how to factor in a person’s vaccination status.

    Please click here to review the updated guidance on quarantine for those exposed to COVID-19.

  • Governor Cuomo Announces Launch of New ID Verification Tool to Fight Unemployment Fraud, Speed Processing of Claims

    February 25, 2021
     
    Governor Cuomo has announced the launch of a new ID Verification Tool to fight unemployment fraud and help New Yorkers with legitimate unemployment claims verify their identities and receive benefits faster. The tool is called ID.me. According to the announcement "The Department of Labor has identified over 500,000 fraudulent claims and stopped over $6.4 billion in payments to criminals since the start of the pandemic and distributed over $70 billion in legitimate unemployment benefits to 4.2 million New Yorkers since March 2020."
     
     
    Please click here to read the full announcement.

  • Interim Guidance for Food Services During COVID-19

    February 25, 2021

    The interim guidance for food service during COVID-19 has been released after the announcement of the approval of 150-person events. This interim guidance may be especially helpful to event planners, venues, and caterers.

    Please click here to view the interim guidance.

     

  • NYS DOL Cancels Unemployment Insurance Charges

    February 3, 2021

    Commissioner Roberta Reardon, of the New York State Department of Labor (NYS DOL) has issued an Order to modify the unemployment benefit charging system, thereby easing the burden on employers of incurred charges on unemployment insurance.

    The Order states that all unemployment benefits paid out to claimants since March 9, 2020 will be charged against New York State’s general unemployment insurance account rather than to individual employers, until further notice.

    Please click here to read the full Order.

     

  • New Guidance on COVID Paid Sick Leave Issued by NYS Department of Labor

    January 26, 2021

    The New York State Department of Labor has released updated guidance on the use of COVID-19 Sick Leave. This updated document supplements prior guidance on the application of COVID-19 Sick Leave. All prior guidance remains in effect. Please click here to review the updated guidance.
     
    Please click here for the New York Paid Family Leave COVID-19: Frequently Asked Questions webpage.
     
    Please click here for COVID-19 Paid Leave guidance for employers.
     

  • COVID-19 Vaccination Updates

  • Governor Cuomo Announces New Yorkers 50 Years of Age and Older Will Be Eligible to Receive COVID-19 Vaccine

    March 22, 2021

    Governor Cuomo has announced that New Yorkers 50 years of age and older are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Please click here to read the full announcement.
     
    Please visit am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/ to schedule your appointment. As a reminder, a mass vaccination site has been set up at Aviation Mall, located at 578 Aviation Road in Queensbury, in the old Sears location. Appointments are required.
     

     

  • Governor Cuomo Announces New Yorkers 60 Years of Age and Older and Additional Public Facing Essential Workers Will Be Eligible to Receive COVID-19 Vaccine

    March 10, 2021

    Governor Cuomo announced yesterday, March 9, 2021, that all New Yorkers 60 years of age and older will be eligible to receive the vaccine, while public facing essential workers from governmental and nonprofit entities will be eligible beginning March 17.

    Please click here to read the full announcement.

     

  • COVID-19 Vaccine Update & Eligibility Info

    January 5, 2021

    It has been reported that a highly contagious strain of COVID-19 has been discovered in Saratoga County, NY. This strain was first detected in the United Kingdom and has now spread to the United States. Your ARCC has been in constant communication with our partners in Warren & Washington Counties on the steady rise of COVID-19 cases.

    We would like to thank our member businesses for their diligence and care adhering to health and safety guidelines to keep our communities safe during this time. Your ARCC is honored to serve you and continually update you as information becomes available. Please know that we are here to advocate, educate, collaborate, and connect our members with each other, our elected officials and our greater community through these difficult times. So many of you have reached out to us for assistance navigating these challenging times. Thank you for your continued partnership and trust in your ARCC.

    Yesterday Governor Cuomo announced an "Am I Eligible?" app for New Yorkers to determine if they are currently eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. To access the app, as well as find the latest information concerning the vaccine and its administration, visit: https://covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/

    Governor Cuomo also announced the latest prioritization for getting New Yorkers vaccinated. The eligibility expands to include the following: outpatient/ambulatory front-line, high-risk health care workers who provide direct in-person patient care, as well as all public health care workers who provide direct in-person care, including those who conduct COVID-19 tests and handle lab specimens. And beginning this week, the following will be eligible to receive vaccines: home care workers, hospice workers, and nursing home and other congregate setting workers who have yet to receive a vaccine through the federal nursing home vaccination program. Please click here to read the full announcement.

    Glens Falls Hospital created a community education video in the interest of providing our community with easily accessible information about the COVID-19 vaccine. View it on their Facebook page here.

    For information on the COVID-19 vaccine, provided by Hudson Headwaters Health Network (HHHN), click here.

     

     

     

  • Governor Cuomo Updates New Yorkers on State's Vaccination Distribution Plan

    December 10, 2020

    Yesterday Governor Cuomo provided updates on a COVID-19 vaccination distribution plan to New Yorkers. The FDA is expected to authorize the Pfizer vaccine this week and New York State is expected to receive 170,000 vaccine doses this weekend.

     

    Click here to read the full announcement.

     

  • Governor Cuomo Directs State Department of Health to Begin Implementing 'Surge & Flex' Hospital Protocol & Potential Effect on Indoor Dining Capacity Governor Cuomo Directs State Department of Health to Begin Implementing 'Surge & Flex' Hospital Protocol & Potential Effect on Indoor Dining Capacity

    December 8, 2020
     

    Governor Cuomo held a press conference yesterday where he directed the New York State Department of Health to begin implementing the state's "surge and flex" protocol and mandated all hospitals begin expanding their bed capacity by 25% to further prepare hospitals for a future COVID-19 surge.

     

    In addition, following updated guidance from the CDC, Governor Cuomo announced that if a region's hospitalization rate does not stabilize in the next five days, additional restrictions will be applied to indoor dining. If the hospitalization rate does not stabilize in the next 5 days, indoor dining outside of New York City will be decreased to 25%, and indoor dining will be suspended in New York City.

     

    Click here to read the full announcement.

  • Governor Cuomo Announces Winter Plan to Combat COVID-19 Surge in New York State Governor Cuomo Announces Winter Plan to Combat COVID-19 Surge in New York State

    December 1, 2020

    Governor Cuomo has announced a plan for combating COVID-19 this winter that consists of five targeted strategies focused on mitigating the spread of the virus and boosting New York State hospital preparedness. Those targeted strategies are:

     

    • Continue and strengthen New York's targeted micro-cluster strategy while managing hospital capacity to enhance and equalize care;
    • Increase and balance testing resources and availability;
    • Keep schools open safely;
    • Prevent viral spread from small gatherings;
    • Operationalize an equitable and safe vaccination program

     

    For additional details on these strategies, click here to read the full announcement.

  • Reopen New York Resources

    Below are compiled resources pertaining to reopening businesses in New York State. Click here to view the Metrics to Guide Reopening New York website.

     

  • Restaurants Outside NYC Can Move to 75% Indoor Capacity Beginning March 19

    March 8, 2021

    Governor Cuomo announced yesterday, March 7, 2021, that restaurants outside of New York City can operate at 75% indoor capacity beginning on March 19, 2021. The data has shown that restaurants can operate safely and in accordance with strict health protocols at 75 percent capacity.

    Please click here to read the full announcement.

  • Event, Arts & Entertainment Venues Can Reopen at 33% Capacity Beginning April 2

    March 4, 2021

    Governor Cuomo made an announcement yesterday, March 3, 2021, that event, arts & entertainment venues may reopen at 33% capacity beginning April 2, 2021.

    Please click here for additional information on this announcement.

  • Indoor Family Entertainment Centers Can Open March 26, Outdoor Amusement Parks Can Open April 9 & Camps Can Begin to Plan for Summer Opening

    February 17, 2021
     
     
    Governor Cuomo announced today that indoor family entertainment centers and places of amusement can open with a 25% capacity limit beginning Friday, March 26, 2021. In addition, outdoor amusement parks can open with a 33% capacity limit beginning Friday, April 9, 2021. It was also announced that day and overnight summer camps in New York State can begin to plan for reopening.
     
    Some highlights from this announcement:
    • All facilities must submit reopening plans with health protocols to the local health department
    • Face coverings and social distancing will be required for all customers and staff, and customers will be required to have a health screening with temperature checks prior to entry
     
    Please note, the Department of Health will issue specific reopening guidance, including details on timing, in the coming weeks.
     
    Please click here to read the full announcement.

     

  • Governor Cuomo Announces Restaurant and Bar Closing Times to be Extended to 11 P.M. Statewide Beginning Sunday, February 14

    February 12, 2021
     

    The decision was made based on a continued decline in COVID-19 hospitalization and infection rates throughout New York State.

    Please click here to read the full announcement.

  • Governor Cuomo Announces Sports and Entertainment Events in Major Stadiums and Arenas Can Reopen with Limited Spectators Beginning February 23 Governor Cuomo Announces Sports and Entertainment Events in Major Stadiums and Arenas Can Reopen with Limited Spectators Beginning February 23

    February 10, 2021

    Please click here for the Governor’s latest news on arenas and stadiums with a seating capacity of 10,000 or more. This hopefully will continue to lead us down a path for the opening of smaller venues in the future.

  • Governor Cuomo Announces Restaurants, Bars & Other SLA-licensed Entities Must Close In-person Service From 10 PM to 5 AM Daily Governor Cuomo Announces Restaurants, Bars & Other SLA-licensed Entities Must Close In-person Service From 10 PM to 5 AM Daily

    November 11, 2020

    Governor Cuomo announced new COVID-19 restrictions on restaurants, bars, gyms, and residential gatherings in New York State, yesterday afternoon. These restrictions are effective as of Friday, November 13th at 10:00 pm. Here are some highlights:
     
    • Bars, restaurants and gyms or fitness centers, as well as any State Liquor Authority-licensed establishment, will be required to close from 10 pm to 5 am daily. Restaurants are still allowed to provide curbside, food-only pick-up or delivery after 10 pm, but will not be permitted to serve alcohol to-go.
    • Indoor and outdoor gatherings at private residences will be limited to no more than 10 people
     
    Click here to read the full announcement.

  • NYS Labor Department Releases Guidance on New Paid Sick Leave Law NYS Labor Department Releases Guidance on New Paid Sick Leave Law

    October 20, 2020

    The New York State Labor Department has released guidance and a FAQ regarding the new paid sick leave law that applies to all private sector businesses in the state.
     
    Please click here for the guidance, and click here for the FAQ.

  • Governor Cuomo Announces Ski Resorts May Reopen with 50 Percent Indoor Capacity on November 6 Governor Cuomo Announces Ski Resorts May Reopen with 50 Percent Indoor Capacity on November 6

    Governor Cuomo Announces Ski Resorts May Reopen with 50 Percent Indoor Capacity on November 6

    October 18, 2020
     
    Governor Cuomo has announced that ski resorts may reopen with 50% indoor capacity on November 6, 2020.
     

    Please click here to read the full announcement, which includes State guidance on the reopening of ski resorts.

  • Governor Cuomo Announces Most Movie Theaters, Outside of New York City, Can Reopen on October 23 Governor Cuomo Announces Most Movie Theaters, Outside of New York City, Can Reopen on October 23

    Governor Cuomo Announces Most Movie Theaters, Outside of New York City, Can Reopen on October 23

    October 17, 2020

    Governor Cuomo has announced that most movie theaters, outside of New York City, may reopen at 25% capacity, and no more than 50 people in front of each movie screen, under state guidance on October 23, 2020.

     

    Click here to read the full announcement from Governor Cuomo.

    Click here for the movie theater guidelines for employers and employees.

    Click here for interim guidance and business affirmation for movie theaters.

  • NYS Provides Interim Guidance for Trade Schools During COVID-19 NYS Provides Interim Guidance for Trade Schools During COVID-19

    NYS Provides Interim Guidance for Trade Schools During COVID-19

    October 14, 2020

    New York State has provided Interim Guidance for Trade Schools and Private Instruction during the COVID-19 public health emergency. Here is what qualifies as a "trade school":
     
    • language schools
    • exam preparation and tutoring
    • automobile driving schools
    • computer training
    • professional and management development training
    • cosmetology and barber schools
    • flight training
    • lifeguard training
    • personal development schools
    • and other trade, vocational, and technical schools
     
    This guidance does not apply to higher education institutions or pre-kindergarten to grade 12 schools, which are subject to separate New York State Department of Health (DOH) guidance for their operations and activities during the ongoing public health emergency.
     
    Click here to read the full Interim Guidance document, which includes a link to the standard affirmation at the end.
     

    Many thanks to Warren County Administrator Ryan Moore for bringing this to our attention.

  • Governor Cuomo Announces Moratorium on COVID-Related Residential Evictions Will Be Extended Until January 1, 2021 Governor Cuomo Announces Moratorium on COVID-Related Residential Evictions Will Be Extended Until January 1, 2021

    Governor Cuomo Announces Moratorium on COVID-Related Residential Evictions Will Be Extended Until January 1, 2021

    September 28, 2020

    Governor Cuomo announced that the New York State's Tenant Safe Harbor Act will be expanded until January 1, 2021 to protect additional residential tenants from eviction if they are suffering financial hardship during COVID-19.

     

    Click here to read the full announcement.

  • Governor Cuomo Announces Casinos Allowed to Reopen with Limited Capacity Next Week Governor Cuomo Announces Casinos Allowed to Reopen with Limited Capacity Next Week

    Governor Cuomo Announces Casinos Allowed to Reopen with Limited Capacity Next Week

    September 3, 2020

    Governor Cuomo announced today that casinos and video lottery terminal facilities will be allowed to reopen starting September 9 with a 25 percent occupancy limit.

     

    Click here to read the full announcement.

  • Governor Cuomo Announces Gyms & Fitness Centers Can Reopen Starting August 24th Governor Cuomo Announces Gyms & Fitness Centers Can Reopen Starting August 24th

    Governor Cuomo Announces Gyms & Fitness Centers Can Reopen Starting August 24th

    Tuesday, August 18, 2020

    Governor Cuomo has given clearance for gyms and fitness centers to open starting August 24, 2020, but the Governor has left it up to County officials to finalize an opening date. We are working with our County officials to provide you with dates and other requirements to open.
     
    As we work to finalize these dates we did want to provide you with the Governor's press release and interim guidance below for opening gyms and fitness centers.
     
    Please click here to read Governor Cuomo's Press Release announcement of gyms and fitness centers reopening.
     
    Please click here for the Interim Guidance for gyms and fitness centers during the COVID-19 public health emergency.

     

    Warren County Gym & Fitness Centers Re-Opening Press Release

    August 19, 2020

    Warren County, NY has issued a press release outlining how the County is handling the re-opening of gyms and fitness centers. If you operate a gym, in Warren County NY, or know somebody who does, please help us by making sure they see this information and act on it. They will not be able to open up (and stay open) if they do not follow this process.
     
    Please click here to read the full press release, which includes an application process for re-opening gyms and fitness centers.
     
    Also please note: These rules apply to all fitness activities and facilities that wish to operate indoors, including but not limited to: standalone, hotel, residential, and office gyms and fitness centers; gyms and fitness centers in higher education institutions; yoga/Pilates/barre studios; boxing/kickboxing gyms; fitness boot camps; CrossFit or other plyometric boxes; and any other group fitness classes (e.g., spin, rowing, dancing). 

    Washington County Gym & Fitness Center Re-Opening Information

    August 20, 2020

    In accordance with Governor Cuomo's announcement, Washington County, NY has developed a comprehensive process for gyms and fitness centers to safely re-open.
     
    The steps are as follows:
     
    2. Submit the completed, signed checklist and all associated documentation via email to publicsafety@washingtoncountyny.gov 
    3. Once your completed documentation has been received, a member of our Public Safety team will coordinate with the Gym / Fitness Center to conduct an onsite compliance assistance visit
     

    Gym/Fitness Center owners/operators having difficulty submitting the documentation, or questions should contact the Public Safety department at (518)747-7520 Ext. 1 or by email at publicsafety@washingtoncountyny.gov.

  • Governor Cuomo Announces New Regulations for Bars & Restaurants to Ensure Compliance with State Social Distancing and Face Covering Orders Governor Cuomo Announces New Regulations for Bars & Restaurants to Ensure Compliance with State Social Distancing and Face Covering Orders

    July 17, 2020

    Governor Cuomo announced new regulations for bars and restaurants yesterday, July 16, 2020. These new regulations require bars and restaurants to "only serve alcohol to people who are ordering and eating food and that all service at bar tops must only be for seated patrons who are socially distanced by six feet or separated by physical barriers." These regulations apply to bars and restaurants statewide.
     
    Click here to read the full announcement from Governor Cuomo.
     
    Click here for full guidance on the Requirement that Licensees With On-Premises Service Privileges Serve Food With Alcoholic Beverages from the New York State Liquor Authority.

  • Governor Cuomo announces that the Capital Region is Expected to Enter Phase 3 Reopening on June 17, 2020 Governor Cuomo announces that the Capital Region is Expected to Enter Phase 3 Reopening on June 17, 2020

    June 15, 2020
     
    Please click here as Governor Cuomo announces that the Capital Region is expected to enter Phase 3 reopening on June 17, 2020.
    Please click here for Phase 3 reopening guidance.

    New York Forward Business Reopen Lookup Tool can be found here.

  • New York State Liquor Authority Guidance on Outdoor Expansion of Licensed Premises in Response to COVID-19 Outbreak New York State Liquor Authority Guidance on Outdoor Expansion of Licensed Premises in Response to COVID-19 Outbreak

    Effective Thursday, June 4, 2020
     
    Pursuant to the Governor’s order, effective Thursday, June 4, 2020, all licensees in regions that have entered phase 2 of reopening and which have on-premises service privileges under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law (ABC Law) may, subject to the guidance below, resume outdoor, on-premises service of alcoholic beverages and/or food.  
    To aid in prevention of the spread of the coronavirus and assist businesses impacted by the current state of emergency, the Governor has ordered the Chairman of the State Liquor Authority (SLA) to promulgate guidance on a streamlined process for expansion of licensed premises for service of alcoholic beverages. This SLA Guidance shall continue until July 6, 2020 but may be extended or reduced depending upon the circumstances. 
     

    Continue reading here.

  • Capital Region Restaurants Will Be Permitted to Open Outdoor Dining on June 4, 2020 Capital Region Restaurants Will Be Permitted to Open Outdoor Dining on June 4, 2020

    June 3, 2020

    Please click here for information that the Capital Region (our region) restaurants will be permitted to open outdoor dining on Thursday, June 4, 2020.

  • Phase 2 Reopening Guidance Phase 2 Reopening Guidance

    Governor Cuomo Announces Capital Region Expected to Enter Phase 2 Reopen on June 3, 2020

    June 1, 2020
     

    Please click here as Governor Cuomo announces the Capital Region is expected to enter Phase 2 reopen this Wednesday, June 3, 2020.

     

    May 29, 2020

    Please click here for Phase 2 Reopening Guidance. Many thanks to Warren County Administrator Ryan Moore for the heads up.
     
    Phase 2 is scheduled to reopen for our region (Capital Region) on Wednesday June 3, 2020. Please be advised that this date may change. We are awaiting further guidance from the Governor's office on the Phase 2 reopening date for our region. Your ARCC is working hard with our elected officials and others for a June 3, 2020 reopening date.
     
    Phase 2 businesses include:
    • All Office-Based Jobs
    • Real Estate Services
    • Retail – In-Store Shopping 
    • Limited Barbershop and Hair Salon Services
    • Vehicle Sales, Leases, and Cleaning
    • Commercial Building Management

  • Back to Business Webinar, 5/27 - presented by Catamount Consulting Back to Business Webinar, 5/27 - presented by Catamount Consulting

    Many thanks to Scott McKenna and Heidi Williams of Catamount Consulting for a great “Back to Business” Webinar yesterday, May 27, 2020.

    The focus of this webinar was on the safety and health of employees and customers as you reopen your business.

     

    Click here for the Power Point presentation.

    Click here for the Zoom recording of the presentation.

    Additional resources:

  • Reopening Self-Assessment and Affirmation of Compliance Form for the City of Glens Falls Reopening Self-Assessment and Affirmation of Compliance Form for the City of Glens Falls

    Please click here for an informational letter from Glens Falls Mayor Dan Hall regarding reopening self-assessment and affirmation of compliance for the City of Glens Falls.

    Please click here for the City of Glens Falls reopening self-assessment and affirmation of compliance form.

  • Capital Region Phase 1 Reopening Starts Wednesday May 20, 2020 Capital Region Phase 1 Reopening Starts Wednesday May 20, 2020

    Capital Region Phase 1 Reopening Starts Wednesday May 20, 2020
    May 19, 2020
     
    Great news! The Capital Region Phase 1 reopening starts, tomorrow, Wednesday May 20, 2020!!
     
    Some key points:
    Click here to see if your business is in Phase 1 and that you have read the NY State safety guidance and have a business reopening safety plan in place.
     
    Click here for Business Reopen Lookup Tool.
     
    Click here for the Business Reopening Safety Plan template (this is a standard template, please see if there is one specific to your business).
     
    The business reopening safety plan template states, “This plan does not need to be submitted to a state agency for approval but must be retained on the premises of the business and must be made available to the New York State Department of Health (DOH) or local health or safety authorities in the event of an inspection.”
     
    Other helpful guidance:
    1. Develop Plans and Procedures (fill out business reopening safety plan template referenced above)
    2. Have a person “in charge” and accountable for the procedures and making sure they are implemented
    3. Employees should all receive a copy of the plan and sign off that they have read the plan and agree to implement them
    4. Have log books available for staff to fill out that they are performing the procedures (sign off time and initials)
    5. Have signs at your place of business outlining what your safety expectations are for your employees and your guests/customers

  • REQUIRED: "Read and Affirm Detailed Guidelines" for Phase 1 Reopening and Essential Businesses REQUIRED: "Read and Affirm Detailed Guidelines" for Phase 1 Reopening and Essential Businesses

    REQUIRED: "Read and Affirm Detailed Guidelines" for Phase 1 Reopening and Essential Businesses
     
    Please click here for the “NY Forward Industries Reopening by Phase” page where you will find “Read and Affirm Detailed Guidelines”, along with summary guidelines and sample safety plan templates.
     
    Please note:
    Each business reopening in Phase 1, and currently open essential businesses, will have to read and affirm the detailed guidelines for your industry and submit acknowledgement to the state on the link found above.

  • New York Safety and Health Guidelines for Phase 1 Industry Reopening New York Safety and Health Guidelines for Phase 1 Industry Reopening

    New York Safety and Health Guidelines for Phase 1 Industry Reopening
     
    Please click here for updated New York safety and health guidelines for Phase 1 industry reopening.
     
    Please note:
    At this time, New York is urging each business to develop a safety and health plan prior to reopening.
     
    There is no guidance at this time to submit your plan for approval.
     
    Click here for the FAQ, where there is a section with a contact email address for the Capital Region should you have questions regarding a safety and health plan for your business.
     
    Please check the links above often as new information is added several times per day.

  • Updated Regional Monitoring Dashboard Updated Regional Monitoring Dashboard

    Updated Regional Monitoring Dashboard
     
    Please click here for an updated Regional Monitoring Dashboard. We are in the Capital Region where we improved from 5 out of 7 yesterday to 6 out of 7 today.
     
    Please take note: 
     
    The goal is to be 7 out of 7 on the metrics. Once the Capital Region hits 7 out of 7 after May 15, we may get clearance to start Phase 1 reopening.
    This chart can change day to day in either direction, better or worse, or stay static.
     
    Please note at the bottom of the Dashboard a description of each metric.

  • NY Industries Reopening by Phase NY Industries Reopening by Phase

    NY Industries Reopening by Phase
     
    As you know from the information we emailed yesterday afternoon, our Capital Region is not declared ready for Phase 1 of reopening. Our Capital Region is working hard to meet the 7 point metrics criteria, known as the Regional Monitoring Dashboard. Click here to view the Regional Monitoring Dashboard. When these criteria are met and the Governor approves, our Capital Region will be able to start in Phase 1 of reopening.
     
    Please click here for a link to the Governor’s website with current information on New York industries reopening by phase.
     
    As you will see, the New York industries reopening by phase web page is still a work in progress. There is a “Frequently Asked Questions” section, which currently has no questions or answers. But it does have an email link for each region for you to ask questions you may have.

  • Governor Cuomo Announces Updated New York Re-Open Information Governor Cuomo Announces Updated New York Re-Open Information

    Governor Cuomo Announces Updated New York Re-Open Information
     
    Please click here as Governor Cuomo announces three regions of New York ready to begin re-opening on May 15th.
     
    Please click here for an updated Regional Monitoring Dashboard released by Governor Cuomo this afternoon.
     
    In addition click here for the "NY Forward Re-Opening" Guide also distributed by the Governor’s office.

  • Governor Cuomo Announces 12-Step Phased Plan to Reopen New York State Governor Cuomo Announces 12-Step Phased Plan to Reopen New York State

    Governor Cuomo Announces 12-Step Phased Plan to Reopen New York State
     
    Please click here for Governor Cuomo’s 12-step phased plan to reopen New York State.
    While all 12 steps are vital to our community reopening, points 2 and 3 are very relevant directly to our business community.

  • Governor Cuomo Sunday, 4/26, Press Conference comments on "Restarting the State" Governor Cuomo Sunday, 4/26, Press Conference comments on "Restarting the State"

    Governor Cuomo Sunday, 4/26, Press Conference comments on "Restarting the State"
     
    Please click here for an article from the Post Star highlighting Governor Cuomo’s Sunday April 26, 2020 press conference. 
     
    The Governor highlights what your ARCC has been advocating and working on with our elected officials: a regional approach to reopening New York as well as a business sector approach for reopening New York State.

  • ARCC Works with Assemblyman Dan Stec and Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce for a Regional Reopening Approach ARCC Works with Assemblyman Dan Stec and Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce for a Regional Reopening Approach

    ARCC Works with Assemblyman Dan Stec and Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce for a Regional Reopening Approach
     
    Many thanks to Assemblyman Dan Stec and Todd Shimkus of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce for working with your Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce to ask the Governor to push for a regional reopening approach throughout New York State. Please click here for WNYT Channel 13 News article, go to third picture in article for complete news cast story. 
     
    The Governor responded in kind yesterday (Tuesday, April 21) for the need of a regional reopening approach within New York State. Please click here for Albany Times Union article.
     
    We are in this together.
     
    Blessings,
     
    Michael Bittel
    ARCC President & CEO

  • SBA Extends Deferment Period for all COVID-19 EIDL and Other Disaster Loans until 2022

    March 15, 2021

    The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced, this past Friday, extended deferment periods for all disaster loans, including the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, until 2022.

    Please see below for the full press release.

    Release Date: March 12, 2021                 
     
    Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Blogs & Instagram
     
    SBA Extends Deferment Period for all COVID-19 EIDL and Other Disaster Loans until 2022
     
    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration announced extended deferment periods for all disaster loans, including the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, until 2022.
     
    • All SBA disaster loans made in calendar year 2020, including COVID-19 EIDL, will have a first payment due date extended from 12-months to 24-months from the date of the note.
    • All SBA disaster loans made in calendar year 2021, including COVID-19 EIDL, will have a first payment due date extended from 12-months to 18-months from the date of the note.
     
    Existing SBA disaster loans approved prior to 2020 in regular servicing status as of March 1, 2020, received an automatic deferment of principal and interest payments through December 31, 2020. This initial deferment period was subsequently extended through March 31, 2021. An additional 12-month deferment of principal and interest payments will be automatically granted to these borrowers. Borrowers will resume their regular payment schedule with the payment immediately preceding March 31, 2022, unless the borrower voluntarily continues to make payments while on deferment. It is important to note that the interest will continue to accrue on the outstanding balance of the loan throughout the duration of the deferment.
     
    “Small Businesses, private nonprofits and agricultural enterprises, including those self-employed individuals, contractors and gig workers, continue to navigate a very difficult economic environment due to the continued impacts of the Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, as well as historic Severe Winter Storms in 2020,” SBA Acting Administrator Tami Perrillo said.
     
    “The COVID-19 EIDL program has assisted over 3.7 million of small businesses, including non-profit organizations, sole proprietors and independent contractors, from a wide array of industries and business sectors, through this challenging time,” continued Perrillo.
     
    SBA continues to strive to make available all previously approved Coronavirus Pandemic stimulus funding and administer the new targeted programs related to provisions in the 2020 Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act (the Economic Aid Act) as quickly as possible.
     
    “The American people and the nation’s Small Business owners need our tireless effort and dedication to get this essential funding to those in great need, and SBA will not rest until we implement President Biden’s “American Rescue Plan” and it’s additional targeted programs and funds allocated for America’s small business and nonprofit communities,” said SBA Senior Advisor Michael Roth.
     
    COVID-19 EIDL loans are offered at very affordable terms, with a 3.75% interest rate for small businesses and 2.75% interest rate for nonprofit organizations, a 30-year maturity. Interest continues to accrue during the deferment period and borrowers may make full or partial payments if they choose.
     
    In mid-February 2021, SBA reached a milestone in the success of the COVID-19 EIDL program, by approving over $200 billion in emergency funding in low-interest loans, providing working capital funds to small businesses, non-profits and agricultural businesses to survive the severe impacts of this catastrophic and historic period within the entire United States of America and its territories. SBA continues to approve over $500 million each week for the COVID-19 EIDL program.
     
    Questions on SBA COVID-19 EIDL and disaster loan payments can be answered by email at DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov or by calling SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (TTY: 1-800-877-8339).
     
    ###
     
    About the U.S. Small Business Administration
    The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.­
     

     

  • SBA Prioritizes Smallest of Small Businesses in the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

    February 22, 2021

    The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced enhancements to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for small businesses.

    Click here to read the full press release.

     

  • Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Update: Interim Final Rule, FAQs for lenders & borrowers

    March 4, 2021

    The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has issued an Interim Final Rule on the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). This interim final rule implements revisions to loan amount calculation and eligibility related to loans made under the PPP.

    Please click here to download the Interim Final Rule.

    For updated PPP FAQs for lenders and borrowers, as well as loan applications for First Draw and Second Draw PPP loans, visit the SBA website here.

  • SBA Re-Opening Paycheck Protection Program to Small Lenders on Friday, January 15 and All Lenders on Tuesday, January 19

    The Small Business Administration (SBA) has made an announcement that the Paycheck Protection Program loan portal will reopen to small lenders this Friday, January 15th, and to all lenders on Tuesday, January 19th. Click here to read the release.

     

  • Phase 4 COVID-19 Relief Package - Support for Small Businesses Phase 4 COVID-19 Relief Package - Support for Small Businesses

    The Phase 4 COVID-19 Relief Package was passed by Congress yesterday. Many thanks to Senator Schumer, Senator Gillibrand, and Congresswoman Stefanik, and their staffs, for working directly with us throughout this past weekend. Your ARCC was pleased to advocate for additional PPP, Save our Stages, hospital funding, and many other issues relevant to our greater community.

    Please see below a detailed breakdown, provided by Congresswoman Stefanik, of the Phase 4 COVID-19 Relief Package as it applies to our business community:

    Among the numerous provisions included in the bill, I specifically wanted to highlight some of the economic relief this bill will provided to you as small businesses.

    This legislation will include $325 billion for small businesses, extending the Paycheck Protection Program and allowing small businesses to deduct expenses. Please see the information below for more details:

     

    Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

    • $284.5 billion for PPP while providing a second round of PPP loans for the hardest-hit small businesses, housing cooperatives, veterans’ organizations, tribal businesses, self-employed individuals, sole proprietors, independent contractors, and small agricultural co-ops.
    • To be eligible for the second PPP draw down, a business must:
    • Have less than 300 employees and prove that they have used or will use the full amount of their first PPP.
    • Demonstrate at least a 25% reduction in gross receipts in the first, second, or third quarter of 2020 relative to the same 2019 quarter. Provides applicable timelines for businesses that were not in operation in Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4 of 2019. Applications submitted on or after January 1, 2021 are eligible to utilize the gross receipts from the fourth quarter of 2020.
    • The maximum loan amount for a second drawn PPP will be reduced to $2 million.
    • PPP loan terms remain largely similar to those enacted under the CARES Act and in general may receive a loan amount of up to 2.5X the average monthly payroll costs in the one year prior to the loan or the calendar year. No loan can be greater than $2 million and must meet the following requirements:
    • Seasonal employers may calculate their maximum loan amount based on a 12-week period beginning February 15, 2019 through February 15, 2020.
    • Businesses with multiple locations that are eligible entities under the initial PPP requirements may employ not more than 300 employees per physical location.
    • Waiver of affiliation rules that applied during initial PPP loans apply to a second loan.
    • An eligible entity may only receive one PPP second draw loan.
    • Fees are waived for both borrowers and lenders to encourage participation.
    • Makes 501(c)(6) organizations, including local Chambers and destination marketing organizations, housing cooperatives, newspapers, broadcasters, and radio stations eligible for PPP
    • Expands the following expenses allowable and forgivable uses for PPP:
    • Payment for any software, cloud computing, and other human resources and accounting needs; costs related to property damage due to public disturbances not covered by insurance; PPE and adaptive investments to help a loan recipient comply with federal health and safety guidelines or any equivalent State and local guidance related to COVID-19 during the period between March 1, 2020, and the end of the national emergency declaration.
    • Creates a simplified PPP loan forgiveness application for loans under $150,000
    • To be eligible for this provision, the borrower will need to sign and submit a one-page certification that lists the loan amount, the number of employees retained, and the estimated total amount of the loan spent on payroll costs.
    • The borrower must also attest that they accurately provided the required certification and complied with PPP loan requirements.
    • The SBA must establish this form within 24 days of enactment and may not require additional materials unless necessary to substantiate revenue loss requirements.
    • Additionally, borrowers are required to retain relevant records related to employment for four years and other records for three years. The Administrator may review and audit these loans.
    • $15 billion for live venues, movie theaters, and museums that are experiencing significant revenue loss, modeled after the Save our Stages legislation
    • Expansion to PPP calculations for restaurants (based on NAICS code 72) from 2.5x payroll to 3.5x payroll
    • Eligible expenses are also expanded to include supplier costs, perishable goods, PPE, and outdoor seating for restaurants

     

    Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Advance Program

    • $20 billion for new EIDL grants and extends the covered period through December 31, 2021
    • Creates a process for existing EIDL Advance grantees that received less than $10,000 dollars to reapply for the difference between what they received and the maximum EIDL Advance Grant of $10,000 dollars
    • Increases verification tools at the SBA to ensure accurate information is submitted on a grant application
    • Ensures borrowers will not have to deduct their EIDL Advance from their PPP loan forgiveness amount 

     

    7(a), 504, and Microloan Program Enhancements

    • Supplies $2 billion dollars to enhance the SBA’s existing government guarantee loan programs, including the 7(a) Loan Program, the 504 Loan Program, and the Microloan Program
    • Waives borrower and lender fees within the 7(a) and 504 loan programs
    • Increases the 7(a) loan guarantee to 90%
    • Extends the $1 million dollar loan limit for SBA Express Loans
    • Establishes a 504 Express Loan Program
    • Enhances the Microloan program in order to provide financial and technical assistance to businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic

  • Governor Cuomo Executive Orders Governor Cuomo Executive Orders

    Update on Governor Cuomo Executive Order on Mandatory Quarantine for Travelers to New York

    June 29, 2020

    On the afternoon of Friday, June 26, 2020 Governor Cuomo issued an Executive Order to clarify if employees are eligible for paid sick leave benefits, if voluntarily traveling to a state having COVID-19 infection rates exceeding the established criteria.

    The highlight of this Executive Order is:

    "Subdivision 4 of section 1 of chapter 25 of the laws of 2020 is modified to the extent necessary to provide that in addition to any travel to a country for which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a level two or three travel health notice, an employee shall not be eligible for paid sick leave benefits or any other paid benefits pursuant to this chapter if such employee voluntarily travels which commences after June 25, 2020 to a state with a positive test rate higher than 10 per 100,000 residents, or higher than a 10% test positivity rate, over a seven day rolling average, and which the commissioner of the department of health has designated as meeting these conditions as outlined in the advisory issued pursuant to Executive Order 205, and the travel was not taken as part of the employee’s employment or at the direction of the employee’s employer;"

    Please click here to read the full Executive Order No. 202.45 related to the Mandatory Quarantine for Travelers to New York.

    Click here to read the interim guidance document on Quarantine Restrictions on Travelers Arriving in New York State Following Out of State Travel from restricted states, issued by the New York State Department of Health.

    Please click here for a list of restricted states, guidance for travel, precautionary quarantine requirements, and exemptions for essential workers. Please note that this list of restricted states could change daily.

    Governor Cuomo Executive Order on Discretion of Temperature Checks

    June 8, 2020
     
    Please click here for Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order on discretion of owners/employers requiring temperature checks prior to entering public places within their buildings and businesses.
     
    The highlight in the Executive Order:
     

    Consistent with Center for Disease Controls and Prevention and New York State Department of Health Guidance, commercial building owners, retail store owners and those authorized on their behalf to manage public places within their buildings and businesses (collectively “Operators”) shall have the discretion to require individuals to undergo temperature checks prior to being allowed admittance. Further, Operators shall have the discretion to deny admittance to (i) any individual who refuses to undergo such a temperature check and (ii) any individual whose temperature is above that proscribed by New York State Department of Health Guidelines. No Operator shall be subject to a claim of violation of the covenant of quiet enjoyment, or frustration of purpose, solely due to their enforcement of this directive. This directive shall be applied in a manner consistent with the American with Disabilities Act and any provision of either New York State or New York City Human Rights Law.

    Governor Cuomo Issues Executive Order Giving Businesses the Right to Deny Customers Not Wearing Masks or Face Coverings

    May 29, 2020

    Click here for Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order giving businesses the right to deny customers not wearing masks or face coverings.

     

    Governor Cuomo Announces 'NYS on PAUSE' Extended until May 15

    On Thursday, April 16, 2020, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced all NYS on Pause restrictions and closures will be extended until May 15th.

    Click here to read this announcement.

    "New York State Pause" Governor Cuomo Executive Order

    Please find a link below regarding the “New York State Pause” Governor Cuomo Executive Order. This is a 10 point-policy that the Governor has mandated to combat the Coronovirus, starting with all non-essential businesses should be closed as of 8 pm Sunday (yesterday), March 22, 2020.

    Click here to read "New York State Pause" Governor Cuomo Executive Order.

    Governor Cuomo Signs The 'NEW YORK STATE ON PAUSE' Executive Order, List of Essential Businesses and "Designation as an Essential Business" Request Form - March 20, 2020

    Click here to read Governor Cuomo's 'New York State on Pause' Executive Order

    Below is a list of "Essential Businesses" according to Executive Order 202.6:
    1. Essential health care operations including
    • research and laboratory services
    • hospitals
    • walk-in-care health facilities
    • emergency veterinary and livestock services
    • elder care
    • medical wholesale and distribution
    • home health care workers or aides for the elderly
    • doctor and emergency dental
    • nursing homes, or residential health care facilities or congregate care facilities
    • medical supplies and equipment manufacturers and providers
     
    2. Essential infrastructure including
    • utilities including power generation, fuel supply and transmission
    • public water and wastewater
    • telecommunications and data centers
    • airports/airlines
    • transportation infrastructure such as bus, rail, or for-hire vehicles, garages
    • hotels, and places of accommodation
     
    3. Essential manufacturing including
    • food processing, manufacturing agents, including all foods and beverages
    • chemicals
    • medical equipment/instruments
    • pharmaceuticals
    • sanitary products
    • telecommunications
    • microelectronics/semi-conductor
    • agriculture/farms
    • household paper products
     
    4. Essential retail including
    • grocery stores including all food and beverage stores
    • pharmacies
    • convenience stores
    • farmer’s markets
    • gas stations
    • restaurants/bars (but only for take-out/delivery)
    • hardware and building material stores
     
    5. Essential services including
    • trash and recycling collection, processing and disposal
    • mail and shipping services
    • laundromats
    • building cleaning and maintenance
    • child care services
    • auto repair
    • warehouse/distribution and fulfillment
    • funeral homes, crematoriums and cemeteries
    • storage for essential businesses
    • animal shelters
     
    6. News media
     
    7. Financial Institutions including
    • banks
    • insurance
    • payroll
    • accounting
    • services related to financial markets
     
    8. Providers of basic necessities to economically disadvantaged populations including
    • homeless shelters and congregate care facilities
    • food banks
    • human services providers whose function includes the direct care of patients in state-licensed or funded voluntary programs; the care, protection, custody and oversight of individuals both in the community and in state-licensed residential facilities; those operating community shelters and other critical human services agencies providing direct care or support
     
    9. Construction including
    • skilled trades such as electricians, plumbers
    • other related construction firms and professionals for essential infrastructure or for emergency repair and safety purposes
     
    10. Defense
    • defense and national security-related operations supporting the U.S. Government or a contractor to the US government
     
    11. Essential services necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation and essential operations of residences or other essential businesses including
    • law enforcement
    • fire prevention and response
    • building code enforcement
    • security
    • emergency management and response
    • building cleaners or janitors
    • general maintenance whether employed by the entity directly or a vendor
    • automotive repair
    • disinfection
     
    12. Vendors that provide essential services or products, including logistics and technology support, child care and services:
    • logistics
    • technology support for online services
    • child care programs and services
    • government owned or leased buildings
    • essential government services

    Click here for "Designation as an Essential Business" Request Form

     

    "Essential Business" and 75% Workforce Reduction Executive Order and Waiver Form

    Please find a link below regarding further guidance on Governor Cuomo’s 75% work reduction mandate. You will also find a link below for a “request a waiver” form. Both are through the Empire State Development website.

    Click here for guidance on Executive Order 202.6

    Click here for designation as an "essential business" request form

    New York State Executive Order Mandating Business that Require In-Office Personnel to Decrease Workforce by 75%

    Governor Cuomo has issued an Executive Order mandating that businesses that require in-office personnel to decrease in-office workforce by 75%. Please see the link below to read the full Executive Order.

    Click here to read full Executive Order.

    Essential Business Executive Order 202.6 Announced by Governor Cuomo -Wednesday, March 18, 2020 

    Please find below an outline of the Essential Business Executive Order from Governor Cuomo. You will also see two links; one which is the actual bill the Governor signed and the second link to Empire State Development which you can ask questions directly regarding Essential Business status.

    Effective on March 20 at 8 p.m.: All businesses and not-for-profit entities in the state shall utilize, to the maximum extent possible, any telecommuting or work from home procedures that they can safely utilize. Each employer shall reduce the in-person workforce at any work locations by 50% no later than March 20 at 8 p.m. Any essential business or entity providing essential services or functions shall not be subject to the in-person restrictions. This includes essential health care operations including research and laboratory services; essential infrastructure including utilities, telecommunication, airports and transportation infrastructure; essential manufacturing, including food processing and pharmaceuticals; essential retail including grocery stores and pharmacies; essential services including trash collection, mail, and shipping services; news media; banks and related financial institutions; providers of basic necessities to economically disadvantaged populations; construction; vendors of essential services necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation and essential operations of residences or other essential businesses; vendors that provide essential services or products, including logistics and technology support, child care and services needed to ensure the continuing operation of government agencies and provide for the health, safety and welfare of the public; 

    Any other business may be deemed essential after requesting an opinion from the Empire State Development Corporation, which shall review and grant such request, should it determine that it is in the best interest of the state to have the workforce continue at full capacity in order to properly respond to this disaster. No later than 5 p.m. on March 19, 2020, Empire State Development Corporation shall issue guidance as to which businesses are determined to be essential. 

    Read the entire Essential Business Executive Order 202.6 from Governor Cuomo here.

    To contact Empire State Development with questions regarding Essential Business status, click here.

    COVID-19 Governor Cuomo Press Release Regarding Business Staffing Levels - Wednesday, March 18, 2020

    AMID ONGOING COVID-19 PANDEMIC, GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES DEPLOYMENT OF 1,000-BED HOSPITAL SHIP 'USNS COMFORT' TO NEW YORK HARBOR 

    See here for a photo of the USNS Comfort 

    Issues Executive Order Directing Non-Essential Businesses to Implement Work from Home Policies Effective Friday, March 20 

    Businesses that Require In-Office Personnel Must Decrease In-Office Workforce by 50 Percent

     

    Exceptions Made for Essential Services — Including Shipping Industry, Warehouses, Grocery and Food Production, Pharmacies, Media, Banks and Related Financial Institutions, and Businesses Essential to Supply Chain

    Confirms 1,008 Additional Coronavirus Cases in New York State - Bringing Statewide Total to 2,382; New Cases in 20 Counties

    Governor Meeting Today with Army Corp of Engineers to Discuss Hospital Surge Capacity 

    Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the USNS Comfort will be deployed to New York harbor and is expected to arrive in April. The 1,000-bed hospital ship has 12 fully-equipped operating rooms and will significantly increase New York's hospital surge capacity. The Governor is meeting with leadership of the Army Corp of Engineers today to discuss ways to increase hospital capacity in New York.

    The Governor also announced he will issue an executive order directing non-essential businesses to implement work-from-home policies effective Friday, March 20. Businesses that rely on in-office personnel must decrease their in-office workforce by 50 percent. The executive order exempts essential service industries, including shipping, media, warehousing, grocery and food production, pharmacies, healthcare providers, utilities, banks and related financial institutions, and other industries critical to the supply chain. 

    "We are fighting a war against this pandemic and we know that two of the most effective ways to stop it is by reducing density and increasing our hospital capacity so our healthcare system is not overwhelmed," Governor Cuomo said. "The deployment of the USNS Comfort to New York is an extraordinary but necessary step to help ensure our state has the capacity to handle an influx of patients with COVID-19 and continue our efforts to contain the virus. Partnering with the private sector to require nonessential employees to work from home will also go a long way toward bending the curve. My number one priority is protecting the public health so that a wave of new cases doesn't crash our hospital system, and we will continue taking any action necessary to achieve that goal." 

    Finally, the Governor confirmed 1,008 additional cases of novel coronavirus, bringing the statewide total to 2,382 confirmed cases in New York State. Of the 2,382 total individuals who tested positive for the virus, the geographic breakdown is as follows:

    Albany County: 36 (13 new)

    Allegany County: 2

    Broome County: 1

    Chenango County: 1 (1 new)

    Clinton County: 1

    Delaware County: 1

    Dutchess County: 20 (4 new)

    Erie County: 7

    Essex County: 1 (1 new)

    Greene County: 2

    Hamilton County: 1 (1 new)

    Herkimer County: 1

    Monroe County: 14 (4 new)

    Montgomery County: 2 (1 new)

    Nassau County: 183 (52 new)

    New York City: 1339 (695 new)

    Onondaga County: 2

    Ontario County: 1

    Orange County: 32 (17 new)

    Putnam County: 2

    Rensselaer County: 4 (3 new)

    Rockland County: 30 (8 new)

    Saratoga County: 14 (5 new)

    Schenectady County: 14 (9 new)

    Suffolk County: 116 (32 new)

    Sullivan County: 1

    Tioga County: 1

    Tompkins County: 3 (1 new)

    Ulster County: 9 (1 new)

    Warren County: 1 (1 new)

    Washington County: 1 (1 new)

    Westchester County: 538 (158 new)

    Wyoming County: 1

    On Monday, Governor Cuomo directed nonessential state employees statewide to work from home. The Governor also directed local governments to reduce their overall workforce by 50 percent and allow nonessential employees to work from home.

     

    Also on Monday, Governor Cuomo, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont announced a regional approach to combating the novel coronavirus - or COVID-19 - throughout the tri-state area. These uniform standards limited crowd capacity for social and recreational gatherings to 50 people, and required restaurants and bars to close on premise service and move to take-out and delivery services only. The three governors also temporarily closed movie theaters, gyms and casinos.

     

    Governor Cuomo's Tri-State Press Release - Issued on March 16, 2020

    AMID LACK OF FEDERAL DIRECTION, GOVERNOR CUOMO, GOVERNOR MURPHY AND GOVERNOR LAMONT ANNOUNCE REGIONAL APPROACH TO COMBATING COVID-19

    The three States will limit crowd capacity for recreational and social gatherings to 50 people - effective by 8 PM tonight.

    Restaurants and bars will close for on premise service and move to take-out and delivery only effective 8 PM tonight.

    Movie theaters, gyms and casinos will temporarily close effective 8 PM tonight.

    Uniform approach to social distancing will slow spread of COVID-19 throughout the tri-state area.

    Continue reading this press release here.

    State Liquor Authority COVID-19 Guidance on Restrictions for Licensees and To-Go & Delivery Sales, and Q & A - Effective Monday, March 16, 2020 at 8:00PM until Further Notice

    Pursuant to the Governor’s order, effective Monday, March 16, 2020 at 8:00PM, all licensed on-premises establishments (e.g. restaurants, bars, taverns, clubs, arenas, catering establishments, etc.) must cease on-premises sales of alcoholic beverages and/or food.  Additionally, all licensed manufacturers with on-premises privileges must also cease on-premises sales of alcoholic beverages and/or food; however, a licensed manufacturer may continue all manufacturing operations.  This restriction shall continue until April 15, 2020 but may be extended or reduced depending upon the circumstances. 

    To aid in prevention of the spread of the coronavirus and assist businesses impacted by the current state of emergency, the Governor has ordered the State Liquor Authority (SLA) to promulgate guidance on new off-premises privileges for licensed businesses with on-premises privileges.

    The State Liquor Authority offers the following guidance:

    • Any on-premises licensee and any manufacturing licensee with on-premises retail privileges may sell for off-premises consumption any alcoholic beverages that it is able to sell for on premises consumption under the law.  
      • For example, a tavern wine licensee may sell beer, wine, cider, mead, and wine product, but not liquor, and a farm winery may sell any New York State labeled wine, beer, cider, mead, or liquor, but not non-New York State products unless it has an on-premises license as well.
    • Alcoholic beverage sold for off-premises consumption pursuant to this guidance may be sold in any closed and any sealed original container of any size.  Provided that:
      • The sale of each container shall be accompanied by the purchase of food;
      • Sales should be consistent with municipal open container ordinances.
    • Alcoholic beverages sold for off-premises consumption pursuant to this guidance may be sold for takeout from the licensed premises or may be delivered to the customer’s residence.  
      • Deliveries shall be made in a vehicle permitted by the Authority (e.g., a third-party delivery service), or a vehicle-owned and -operated, or hired and operated by the licensee or its employee.  A copy of the permit or license must be present in the vehicle.  
    • Alcoholic beverages sold for off-premises consumption pursuant to this guidance may only be sold during the on-premises hours of operation of the county in which the premises is located or, if different, the hours of operation set forth in the licensee’s method of operation with the Authority.
    • While this guidance restricts on-premises privileges, this does not modify any off-premises privileges currently included with your license. 
      • For example, breweries, micro-breweries and farm breweries have always had the privilege to sell beer to go to customers at the premises; this privilege is unchanged.  Under the new guidelines, breweries, micro-breweries and farm breweries who do not also hold an on-premises license may take orders from persons not at the premises for delivery of beer, however these orders for delivery must include food.  

    Any licensed business found to be operating in violation of the Governor’s order restricting on-premises sales of alcoholic beverages shall face a monetary penalty (retail maximum of $10,000/manufacturer maximum of $100,000), and/or suspension, cancellation, or revocation of its license.


    Q & A Regarding the Shutdown  

    At the direction of Governor Cuomo, in order to alleviate the economic hardships faced by our licensees, the SLA has developed new rules to allow for the sale of wine and spirits for delivery and takeout orders for on-premises licensees.  
    We are receiving several questions from retailers and manufacturers. Below are examples of questions and answers provided to retailers/manufacturers; please check back frequently as we will update as new questions come in.       


    I operate a tavern with limited food, can I deliver/sell for takeout alcoholic beverages with orders of food consisting of items such as potato chips, pretzels, peanuts, etc.?  
    Yes, if this is the standard food requirement for your license, you may sell alcoholic beverages for takeout or delivery with these items.

    Can I sell mixed drinks for takeout or for delivery sales?  
    Yes, provided the beverage is placed in a closed container.  All sales must be consistent with municipal open container ordinances.


    Do private clubs, VFWs, Elks Clubs, American Legions, etc., fall under the shutdown for on-premises sales?   
    Yes, private clubs fall under the shutdown guidelines.  

    I operate a micro-brewery, farm brewery or brewery, can I sell beer to go without the customer ordering food?  
    Yes, if the sale takes place on your premises.  However, under the new guidelines, while breweries who do not also hold an on-premises license may take orders from persons not at the premises for delivery of beer, these orders for delivery must include food.  

    I operate a distillery, cidery or winery, can I sell products I produce without the customer ordering food?  
    You may for sales that occur in person at your premises; for orders from persons not at the premises, these orders for delivery must include food.

    I have received orders for food in addition to ten (or more) mixed drinks, is this permissible?  
    Yes, the guidelines do not include restrictions on the quantity of alcoholic beverages, again provided they are in sealed containers.  

    A craft manufacturer may currently sell closed containers of its beer, wine, or spirit (depending on license type) for off-premises consumption without an attendant food sale. The guidance released today mentioned that an attendant food sale is required for off-premises sales. Can you confirm that this requirement does not apply to manufacturers who are already permitted to make off-premises sales without an attendant food sale?
    The guidance relates to sales that are not made under the current off-premises privileges of your license.  So if the sale is to someone not at the licensed manufacturing premises or the sale is of a product not in an original bottle, for example, then food must be included in that sales transaction.

    Can a manufacturer launch a website where customers may purchase closed containers of the licensee’s beer, wine, or spirit for pick up at a scheduled time from the manufacturer’s licensed premises?
    Yes, this is permissible.

    Any questions can be emailed to the Authority at web.master@sla.ny.gov

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