Dear Colleagues:
As we head into our third week with the majority of our non-essential staff working remotely, we would like to take this time to update you on two temporary policies related to NYS Emergency Sick Days and Pay Continuity and share some resources that we have found helpful as we all adjust to new ways of working and staying connected.
NYS Emergency Sick Days
Governor Cuomo has signed legislation to assist NYS employees financially during the Coronavirus pandemic. Under the new legislation, full-time and regular part-time employees have an allotment of 14 Emergency Sick Days at their regular rate of pay in addition to any other available leave benefits under our existing College policies (including up to 40 hours under the New York City Earned Sick Time Act). The Emergency Sick Day allotment can only be used when an individual has been officially ordered to quarantine (either mandatory or precautionary) or a positive diagnosis for COVID-19 is received. Therefore, to be eligible, employees must provide an official order of quarantine from the State or other government entity. A hospital or testing site will provide this document. The use of Emergency Sick Days is available through December 31, 2020, unless otherwise extended by the NYS Governor.
For payroll purposes, managers and supervisors will receive additional information on how to submit the use of the NYS Emergency Sick Leave.
Pay Continuation through April 30, 2020
The College’s pay continuation program has been extended through April 30, 2020 for employees who are available to work, but cannot perform their job functions remotely due to the COVID-19 emergency. We will continue to provide updates as circumstances change and communicate policy changes with you, your managers and supervisors.
Remote Work
The HR team is here to assist you as you work through these unique challenges. We are working to provide resources that support your well-being and help you stay productive while working remotely and practicing social distancing. Take advantage of the Remote Working: Setting Yourself and Your Teams Up for Success learning path available through LinkedIn Learning. This resource is free for anyone with a LinkedIn account, and is also available via single-sign-on through the TCIT LinkedIn Learning Page. And head over to the new TC website, “Come Together Right Now…Virtually!”, to connect with your colleagues and explore original programming, including live readings, musical performances, and guided meditation sessions.
Employee Assistance Program
The safety, welfare, and support of our faculty and staff is of the utmost importance and the College’s EAP provides a wealth of resources including clinical emotional health, wellness, and work and life benefits for you and your covered dependents. Faculty and staff can access the EAP for short-term confidential counseling at 1-855-789-5915 (24-hours/7 days a week) and register using company code: tceap
Take care,
Human Resources