In two weeks, nonessential construction is expected to restart in parts of New York. But before the emergency order is lifted, the City Council wants to ensure essential workers, including those on construction sites, receive hazard pay.
A bill sponsored by Council member Laurie Cumbo would require essential businesses with more than 100 employees to give hourly workers an extra $30 to $75 per shift during the pandemic. The General Contractors Association of New York expressed skepticism about how well the bill would work.
“While we understand the sentiment of this proposal, it would increase the cost of construction at a time when tax revenues are down dramatically and essential capital projects are being postponed and at risk of being canceled,” senior director Felice Farber said in a statement.
Brian Sampson, president of the Associated Builder and Contractors’ New York chapter, said the additional costs would likely fall to owners due to force majeure clauses in contracts. But some smaller owners may struggle to cover those costs in the interim.
The Building Trades Employers Association President Louis Coletti said there was “no need” for hazard pay, pointing to the safety
