And all the latest on New York State's reopening plan
Today, Governor Cuomo announced that outdoor dining at restaurants is permitted in phase two of New York’s reopening plan. In the seven regions that are already in phase two, Capital, Central, Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley, North Country, Southern Tier, and Western New York, restaurants with outdoor dining can begin tomorrow, June 4.
This is welcome news as NFIB has been strongly advocating for this and other restaurants and businesses to be included in earlier phases of the reopening plan.
The interim guidance for outdoor and take-out/delivery food services has been released. Before reopening, businesses must develop a written safety plan (a template is provided by New York State) and must complete an online form to affirm that you have read and understood your obligation to operate under their guidelines.
Western New York Began Phase Two on June 2 and Capital Region did the same on Wednesday June 3.
Governor Cuomo announced on Tuesday, June 2 that Western New York can begin phase two of the reopening process and the Capital Region moved forward with phase two reopening on Wednesday, June 3. Western New York and the Capital Region join five other regions: Central, Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley, North Country, and Southern Tier, that are currently in phase two or the reopening plan. Phase two eligible businesses include office-based businesses; real estate; essential and phase two in-store retail; vehicle sales, leases, and rentals; retail rental, repair, and cleaning; commercial building management; and hair salons and barbershops.
Governor Cuomo also announced that New York City is on track to begin phase one of the reopening process on Monday, June 8. New York City is the only region that has not started the reopening process.
Click here for the list of industry guidelines, business safety plan template, and the required online form to affirm business compliance.
Updated Essential Business Designations from Empire State Development
Empire State Development (ESD) has released updated guidance on essential businesses that supersedes any guidance released to date. The updated guidance now includes the following as essential businesses: all veterinary services and all dentists and dental practices. The updated guidance on essential businesses is effective statewide and is completely separate from the phased-in, regional reopening plan. Visit ESD’s website for a complete list of essential businesses and to review the guidance and/or business operation limitations as it changes regularly.
