ESD has updated their guidance, and they have added residential moving services to the list of essential services. This now means residential moving, storage and warehousing are deemed essential. Also, the guidance states that any service provided to an essential business is also essential.

Below is a link to the updated guidance issued by Empire State Development (ESD) for determining whether a business is essential or non-essential.

https://esd.ny.gov/guidance-executive-order-2026

While we are sharing this updated guidance with you, it is so you can make informed business decisions.  The Association cannot give legal advice or issue a general statement that can apply to all movers because each company must make their own individual decision as to whether to accept moves or not.

Please keep in mind that the designation as essential is related solely to those employees that must be present to support the essential business activities.  No other employees/personnel are permitted to work from your business location.  Also, for those essential employees that are remaining, please follow all recommended social distance guidelines to every extent possible.  Some recommendations are:

• Maintain appropriate social space by reducing crew sizes in cabs.
• Avoid physical contact with other employees or customers, use a non-contact greeting.
• Re-schedule surveys or moves if able to do so.
• Disinfect surfaces with disposable wipes for doorknobs, desks, keyboards, truck cab and handrails.
• Wash your hands after going to the bathroom, coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose.
• Know your surroundings.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve “not your hands” when coughing or sneezing.
• If you feel sick and have any respiratory symptoms, call out and stay home.
• Be Safe

When operating, please regularly check the New York State Department of Health website for best practices and updated guidance – https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/home Also a reminder that no employee should work if they are ill or appear sick.

Overnight, we also learned that a deal has been reached at the federal level on a stimulus bill that includes relief for small businesses. We will pass along any information on that as we receive it. In addition, here are several other resources for small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic:

• Small business owners in all U.S. states and territories are currently eligible to apply for a low-interest loan due to Coronavirus (COVID-19).Click here to apply.
• The IRS has extended the filing deadline CLICK  irs.gov/coronavirus For additional information
• Speak to your insurance agent about the possibility of suspending coverage

Finally, here are some additional resources to take advantage of, as you navigate this uncertainty and wrestle with difficult decisions:

US Small Business Administration       https://www.sba.gov/page/coronavirus-covid-19-small-business-guidance-loan-resources

US Chamber                                          https://www.uschamber.com/co/start/strategy/small-business-resources-for-surviving-coronavirus

NFIB                                                     https://www.nfib.com/content/analysis/coronavirus/latest-on-coronavirus-from-nfib/

We will continue to provide updated information and guidance as we receive it.  Please let me know if you have any questions.

Stay safe everyone.