Pandemic assistance for workers and businesses

New Yorkers who suffer long-term effects due to possible workplace exposure to COVID-19 are receiving state assistance to manage long-term symptoms.

The Workers’ Compensation Board provides information on the rights of workers who have been exposed to coronavirus at work and become ill. Webinars are offered at 1 p.m. on February 23, March 9, and April 13. Information can be found at http://www.wcb.ny.gov/covid-19/. Sessions are free and participants do not need to register in advance.

Officials say that while the webinars are aimed at workers who have lost time on the job or have persistent medical conditions, the information is relevant for anyone who thinks they have contracted COVID through work exposure.

For Broome County business owners, local economic development officials have a new program to help businesses impacted by the pandemic.

The Agency and Broome County announced that the Broome COVID Recovery Fund is providing additional assistance to small businesses that have 25 or fewer employees with a one-time grant of up to $50,000.

The grant can be used for working capital, marketing, payroll, personal protective equipment, rent or mortgage payments, utility payments, training, and even furniture, fixtures, machinery and equipment.

Full program guidelines and operating criteria can be viewed on the Agency’s website (www.theagency-ny.com). Questions can also be emailed to Brendan O’Bryan at [email protected]

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