“Last week, paid sick leave benefits for individuals who have been affected by the coronavirus through mandatory or precautionary isolation or quarantine was signed into law. During this public health crisis, individuals who may have been exposed to the coronavirus shouldn’t be fearful that they cannot make ends meet. By providing paid sick leave to employees in both the public and private sectors, we will be providing essential relief to employees, while also preventing an even greater spread of the virus.

“The governor also issued an executive order that requires non-essential businesses to cut their in-person workforce by 100%. However, essential services, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, news media, banks and healthcare providers will remain open. In order to protect our senior and immune-deficient populations, it’s recommended that everyone stay at least 6 feet from others, wash your hands often, avoid touching your face, cover your coughs and sneezes and do your best to practice social distancing.

“Even though the governor has announced drastic changes to the workforce, I am here for you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out. I understand these are frightening times and I will do my very best to be of help in every way I can. In addition to contacting me, here’s a list of some government resources you can use to keep informed on what’s going on: CDC Webpage: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus, NYS DOH COVID-19 Webpage: https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/home, World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus.”

*Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush’s contact information: 315-493-3909 and blankenbushk@nyassembly.gov