As businesses continue to face extraordinary challenges, we are providing information here that speaks to critical issues. ​ All of these links are designed to assist all businesses in Chautauqua County in the wake of the the COVID-19 pandemic and the ever-changing nature of our business climate. ​The Chamber of Commerce strongly encourages all businesses, regardless of size, to first and foremost ensure the safety of employees and customers and to be prepared for alternative business models as this situation is fluid and things may change rapidly.​

Join Us Online Mondays at 3:30pm
All businesses are invited to join us for a weekly conference call via web or phone.  We are convening these session at 3:30pm each Monday.

​You may register in advance or join the call when it begins at:
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2883247549711698959
Participants can use their computer audio, or call in at +1 (213) 929-4212
Audio Pin 713-239-477

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

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Employee Leave Management
​
​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.

​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 June 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