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Case Law Update - Real Property Taxation of Renewable Energy.pdfUnder Section 487 of the Real Property Tax Law (“RPTL”), real property which includes solar, wind, or other renewable energy systems (a “Renewal Energy System”) is exempt from real property taxation to the extent of any increase in value attributable to the presence of the Renewable Energy System on the property.[1] Local municipalities and school districts may adopt a resolution opting out of this exemption [...]

Medical Examinations and Temperature Testing of Employees.pdfThe following is a summary of issues and guidance related to the ability of employers to make medical inquiries and/or administer medical examinations of employees in the unprecedented circumstances presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.  We note that this guidance may change, as circumstances change in an employer’s community and in the world.Medical InquiriesAn employer’s ability to make medical inquiries of employees [...]

To view the most current Executive Orders from the Office of the Governor and Essential Business Guidance Documents, please follow the links below:Executive Orders from the Office of the Governorhttps://www.governor.ny.gov/executiveorders  New York State  - Empire State Development:  Essential Business Guidance Documentshttps://esd.ny.gov/guidance-executive-order-2026

Employers in New York will be required to revise their employee sick leave requirement under a new law enacted in the New York State budget.    Effective October 1, 2020, Chapter 56 of the Laws of 2020, established minimum standards for sick leave in New York, including a minimum amount of sick leave to be provided accrual and carry over standards, and use of sick leave.  In addition, the new law prevents employer retaliation for an employee’s use of sick leave, requires [...]

Updates from WOH Environmental Practice Group.pdfI.    United States Environmental Protection AgencyA.    EPA Issues Discretionary Enforcement PolicyOn March 26, 2020, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) issued a policy memorandum entitled “COVID-19 Implications for EPA’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Program.” The memo describes EPA’s intent to utilize enforcement discretion during the COVID-19 pandemic for [...]