NFIB’s New York office continues to strongly advocate for small businesses as the State progresses with the New York Forward plan and reopens the economy. In the last few weeks, New York State has released guidance on indoor dining in New York City and agritourism and continues to update the travel advisory weekly.
Governor Cuomo announced that the state will allow indoor dining to resume in New York City at 25% capacity on Sept. 30th. Restrictions for indoor dining in New York City include temperature checks at the door, no bar service (bars can only mix drinks and serve them tableside), tables spaced six feet apart, mandatory closure at midnight, enhanced air filtration, collection of contact information for tracing, and masks must be worn by customers when not seated at the table. The detailed guidance is available on the New York Forward website. New York City will establish and deploy a team of 400 enforcement personnel to ensure businesses that offer indoor food services and dining in New York City comply with the detailed guidance. Additionally, the State has set up a hotline and online complaint form where individuals can report violations.
New York State has also released guidance for agritourism businesses, including corn mazes, pick-your-own fruit/vegetable operations, hayrides, and haunted houses. These businesses are considered low-risk outdoor arts and entertainment and must comply with various restrictions including reduced capacity, face covering requirements, and social distancing. For hayrides, businesses must also review the public transportation guidance.
Each business is required to complete a safety plan, read the detailed guidelines, and complete the online business affirmation form before reopening.
The New York State Department of Health continues to update the travel advisory weekly. New York has removed six states – California, Hawaii, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, and Ohio – from the travel advisory bringing the total to 28 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico on the mandatory quarantine list. Passengers arriving at airports are required to complete a State Dept. of Health traveler form upon entering New York. Travelers who leave the airport without completing the form are subject to a $2,000 fine and ordered to complete the mandatory 14-day quarantine. The travel advisory does not apply to individuals passing through the states for a limited duration through the course of travel (i.e. layover, stop at rest area). There are also exceptions to the travel advisory for essential workers. For a complete list of restricted states as of Sept. 15th, visit the Dept. of Health’s website.
For the latest New York COVID-related news and updates, check www.nfib.com/ny and never hesitate to reach out to NFIB’s New York office with any questions or concerns at 518-434-1262.
