NY A02760

Amends Labor Law Section 591 to make employees eligible for unemployment insurance benefits if they become unemployed due to refusing a coronavirus vaccine.

Modifies Labor Law Section 593 to establish that voluntary separation from employment due to choosing not to receive a coronavirus vaccine constitutes good cause and does not disqualify a claimant from receiving unemployment benefits.

Specifically protects employees who refuse vaccines mandated by the Department of Health for healthcare workers by September 27, 2021, or by employer policies requiring vaccination by a specified date.

Takes effect immediately, with certain provisions coordinated with the effective dates of related 2021 labor law amendments (Chapters 277 and 413).