New York, NY: COVID-19 Paid Sick Leave Expanded for Self-Isolating Workers

Effective April 19, 2020, the New York City Commissioner ordered that individuals who self-identify a need to isolate due to COVID-19 are eligible for immediate paid time off under New York’s statewide COVID-19 Quarantine/Isolation Order Law.

The Order applies to an individual who (A) tests positive for COVID-19, or (B) has symptoms of COVID-19 and was in contact with someone who tested positive or had symptoms of COVID-19.  Employees who meet one of these requirements may request COVID-19 sick leave from their employer, available as paid or unpaid leave of a duration depending on the employer’s size and net income.

The Order contains three appendices applicable to different types of employees: healthcare personnel, non-healthcare essential employees, and non-essential employees.  An employee seeking COVID-19 specific leave time must complete and sign off the applicable appendix affirming that their medical status is true and accurate.  The employee must submit the appendix plus additional documentation (e.g., test results or a medical consultation) evidencing the need for self-isolation.

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