​The past several months have brought extraordinary challenges for our local business community. We are providing information here that speaks to critical issues as Chautauqua County continues to move forward in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Chamber of Commerce strongly encourages all businesses to adhere to the conditions required by New York State for the safety of all employees and customers, and to stay up to date on the changing situation.  ​

Click the menu links to find resources by section:
Our Reopened Economy
Business Resiliency Resources 
Marketing Resources
​​Employee Leave Management
​Health Department and Additional Resources

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Employee Leave Management

​Shared Work
Before you consider a furlough or a layoff please take a look at New York's shared work program:
​Shared Work Planning.     For assistance with Shared Work Planning contact Michele Taylor (contact info below.)

Furlough or Layoff?
 If you are looking at having to furlough or layoff employees reference these resources:
New York State Unemployment Claims
New York State Department of Labor - including a hotline for individuals and businesses

The Society for Human Resources Management offers some guidance on the difference between furloughs and layoffs.  Read more here. 

Relief for Workers Affected by Coronavirus Act
The federal CARES Act provides enhanced Unemployment Insurance benefits and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance. The New York State Labor Department has published a helpful guide, and you can learn more here.

There is additional eligibility information for self-employed individuals here.

Employee Rights Poster
View the new Employee Rights Poster from the US Department of Labor here.  

Business Services Local and Regional Contacts for the NYS Department of Labor
Michele Taylor, Rapid Response Coordinator
Western New York State Department of Labor | Buffalo
Rapid Response Team
284 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14202
Office: 716-851-2655| Fax: 716-851-2636 | michele.taylor@labor.ny.gov

Laura Simons, Employment Services Representative
New York State Department of Labor | Jamestown
​One-Stop Career Center/Chautauqua Works
4 East 3rd Street, Jamestown, NY 14701
Office: 716-487-5105 | Fax: 716-664-9459 | laura.simons@labor.ny.gov

Local Chautauqua Works Reemployment Services phone numbers:
Jamestown Office: 716-661-9553
Dunkirk Office: 716-366-9015
Anyone calling either office must leave a voicemail.  The voicemail will be reviewed by a staff person and referred to the appropriate staff person who will return the call.

Federal and State Emergency Leave Policies
Paid Sick Leave In New York State
Paid Sick Leave in NYS for COVID-19

Paid Leave - Federal
US Department of Labor: Paid Leave Requirements for Employers and Employees

Information for self-employed business people who may qualify for the Disaster Unemployment Assistance Program from the New York State Department of Labor


Health Insurance Coverage
If employees have lost healthcare coverage due to layoffs, they may enroll in health insurance through the New York State of Health exchange by August 15.  Enrollment must take place within 60 days of a qualifying event.  For information on NYSOH coverage available, please contact Holly McBride at the Chamber of Commerce.   


Chautauqua County Crisis Response: Covid-19
The United Ways and Community Foundations of Chautauqua County have combined to form a cohesive support system for local individuals and non-profits in our communities.
Connect Your Employees to Community Support Resources
​Engage in Volunteer Opportunities
Support the Crisis Response Fund

​View our 4/13 presentation on COVID-19: Federal and NY Unemployment and Leave Laws from James Grasso of Phillips Lytle below, or see the slides here.