Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the New York Health and Essential Rights Act (NY HERO Act) into law Wednesday, May 5, creating permanent, enforceable health and safety standards designed to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other airborne infectious diseases in the workplace.
State Senator Michael Gianaris led a year-long campaign with a coalition of unions, essential workers, advocate organizations and scientists leading to its passage with bipartisan support.
“Too many workers have already sacrificed their health for our community’s benefit,” Gianaris said. “The New York HERO Act will honor their efforts by giving workers the tools they need to protect themselves while on the job. I appreciate the efforts of so many advocates and organizers who made this success possible.”
