“In times of crisis, we must all work together to protect our families. As we continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, we must find ways to support working families that may be forced to stay home to protect public health,” said Assemblyman Santabarbara. “Sick leave and job security for workers are crucial measures that are needed now more than ever,” Santabarbara said. “Should the need for quarantine or other preventative measures be required to protect public health, families shouldn’t be forced to put their own health at risk out of fear.”

Under Assembly Bill (A.10153) employees are eligible for sick leave and wage replacement if they are subject to a mandatory or precautionary order of quarantine or isolation due to COVID-19. All employees will also receive anti-retaliation and job protections. Additionally, for purposes of this act only, paid family leave benefits will also allow employees to care for a dependent child who is under a mandatory or precautionary quarantine or isolation. Furthermore, the current waiting periods for these benefits and for unemployment insurance (UI) will be waived for New Yorkers directly affected by COVID-19.

“This is a trying time for all of us and as we move forward, protecting the health and well-being of our families is my top priority,” Assemblyman Santabarbara said. “I’ll continue working with state and local health officials to ensure we are supporting everything that can be done to address this public health crisis.”