On May 4, 2020 Governor Andrew Cuomo provided more information about how New York officials are approaching the reopening of businesses that have been closed since March due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). On May 15, 2020 the statewide shutdown order will start relaxing in certain regions—a four-phased approach aimed toward the reopening of New York businesses. Here’s what New Yorkers need to know.
Phase 1
- Manufacturing
- Construction
- Wholesale Supply
Phase 2
- Finance
- Retail
- Real Estate
- Professional Services
Phase 3
- Hotels
- Restaurants
Phase 4
- Arts
- Recreation
- Education
“Cuomo wants governments and businesses to begin planning now for the phased-in reopening, which could take months to fully implement,” according to spectrumlocalnews.com. “Public health officials want to avoid a spike in cases by reopening too fast. At the same time, there are fears of a ‘second wave’ of cases in the fall.”
COVID-19 has had disastrous effects on the American economy and if businesses remain closed for too long, there’s no telling how severe the damage could be, which is why local, state, and federal governments are eager to get America back to work, albeit in a safe and cautious manner.
As customers who visit essential and non-essential businesses, we have an important responsibility to continue practicing social distancing and other health and safety protocols as our nation manages the pandemic. We must remember that our behaviors while visiting public places will either encourage or slow the spread of COVID-19. To ensure you’re following the best safety practices, follow this advice from public health departments:
- Self-screen before you leave the house. If you’re experiencing a fever, headache, sore throat, cough, difficulty breathing, muscle pain, or loss of taste or smell, contact your healthcare provider and follow their directions.
- Continue following social distancing guidelines: maintain at least 6 feet between you and other people who don’t live in your household.
- Wash or disinfect your hands immediately when you enter a public space.
- Wash or sanitize your hands after the payment process.
- Wear a face mask (that covers your nose and mouth) while you’re in a public space.
At Samuelson Hause PLLC, while our physical office is not open, all of the attorneys are working remotely and serving our clients via telephone or video conferencing. Until further notice, we will continue to work remotely for the health and safety of our employees and our clients.