While New York City has extended its COVID-19 vaccine mandate to all private-sector employees, the move may have created some confusion as to how it applies to credit unions, staff and members. The New York Credit Union Association has been monitoring the situation closely and has engaged on the matter with city policymakers on behalf of our member credit unions with a presence in New York City.
The New York City Health Commissioner has issued an executive order on this matter which credit unions will need to comply with. Beginning Dec. 27, workers, including credit union employees, in New York City who perform in-person work or interact with the public in the course of business must show proof they have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Employees will then have 45 days to show proof of their second dose (for Pfizer or Moderna vaccines), except for those employees who do not submit proof of COVID-19 vaccination because of a reasonable accommodation.
It should also be noted that, according to the New York City Commissioner of Health’s executive order, proof of vaccine is not required for workers who enter the workplace for a quick and limited purpose, which can be interpreted to include credit union employees who work remotely. In addition, the order does not require credit unions to require members to show proof of vaccination in order to enter the credit union. However, it is important to note that per the New York State Department of Health mandate, both employees and members are currently required to wear masks indoors at all times except when eating or drinking, until re-evaluation on Jan. 15, 2022.
Questions about the new executive orders can be directed to Chris Pajak, the Association’s VP of member engagement and a certified HR professional (PHR), at 1 (800) 342-9835 ext. 8188 or via email at christopher.pajak@nycua.org, or the Association’s compliance department, at (518) 437-8174 or via email at compliance@nycua.org.
Additional information is available on the New York City Department of Health website.