Applying For Matilda's Law: A Step-By-Step Guide

Matilda's Law is a directive issued by the state of New York to protect its most vulnerable populations, including individuals over 70, those with compromised immune systems, and those with underlying illnesses. The law was enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and provides guidelines for social distancing, face coverings, and other safety measures for these high-risk groups. While it is not a mandate, Matilda's Law strongly encourages individuals over 70 to stay indoors, practice social distancing when outdoors, and wear masks in the company of others. The law also addresses the parameters for employees over 70 who wish to return to the workplace, outlining the necessary precautions they must take to ensure their safety.

Who is covered by Matilda's Law

Matilda's Law was enacted in New York State to protect New Yorkers aged 70 and older and those with compromised immune systems. The law includes recommendations to remain indoors, going outdoors only for solitary exercise, screening all visitors by taking their temperatures, wearing a mask in the company of others, and practicing social distancing by staying at least 6 feet from others.

Matilda's Law is not a mandate, but rather strong guidance that individuals over 70 are expected to follow to flatten the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19. While individuals in this age group are not required to stay home, they are encouraged to do so if possible. Those who are able and willing to continue working or volunteering are allowed to do so.

The law also applies to those with compromised immune systems and chronic conditions, as they are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19. The death rate increases with the number of chronic conditions or health issues a person has.

To protect older residents, community organizations and faith leaders are encouraged to have a stock of younger individuals ready to step in for older workers or volunteers if needed.

How to protect vulnerable populations

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to light the need to protect our vulnerable populations, including seniors, individuals with compromised immune systems, and those with underlying illnesses or chronic health conditions. Here are some measures that can be taken to safeguard these vulnerable groups:

For Individuals:

• Avoiding Crowds and Limiting Outdoor Activities: Vulnerable individuals should follow the guidelines of Matilda's Law, which recommends staying indoors as much as possible. If they do go out, it is advised to be for solitary exercise and to avoid crowded places.
• Social Distancing: Maintaining a distance of at least six feet from others is crucial when in public spaces.
• Mask-wearing: All vulnerable persons should wear masks when in the company of others. It is also recommended that anyone in close proximity to vulnerable individuals, such as caregivers or family members, should also wear masks to protect them.
• Visitor Precautions: Vulnerable individuals should limit visitors to their homes and pre-screen all visitors by taking their temperatures. It is advised to avoid visiting households with multiple people.
• Public Transportation: Vulnerable individuals should refrain from using public transportation unless it is urgent and absolutely necessary.

For Institutions:

• Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCFs): LTCFs should implement social distancing, quarantine procedures, and enhanced health screenings for both residents and employees. They should also restrict visitors to only medically necessary visits and encourage virtual visits through Skype or other online communication tools.
• Grocery Stores and Essential Services: Some stores have introduced senior citizen-only hours to reduce their risk of exposure while shopping. Additionally, community initiatives can be organized to assist senior citizens with tasks like grocery shopping or picking up prescriptions.
• Workplaces: For employees who are over 70 or have underlying health conditions, accommodations should be made to ensure their safety. This may include providing different PPE, arranging alternate work locations or assignments with fewer interactions, or allowing them to work remotely if possible.

By following these guidelines and working together, we can help protect the most vulnerable members of our society during this challenging time. It is important to stay informed, adapt to changing recommendations, and be considerate of those around us.

Face coverings and PPE

Face Coverings:

• All vulnerable individuals, including those over the age of 70, those with underlying health conditions, and those with compromised immune systems, should wear face masks or coverings when in the company of others.
• This is particularly important when they are outdoors, as it helps reduce the risk of virus transmission.
• When wearing a mask, ensure it fits snugly over your nose and mouth, providing a secure barrier.

PPE for Nursing Home Workers:

• Nursing home workers, who interact closely with vulnerable residents, are required to wear surgical masks to prevent the potential asymptomatic spread of COVID-19.
• This measure is crucial, as it helps protect both the residents and the workers themselves.
• Additionally, nursing home workers should undergo daily health screenings before entering the facility to identify any potential symptoms or risks.

Public and Private Employees:

• According to NYS Executive Order 202.16, public and private employees interacting with the public during the COVID-19 outbreak are required to wear face coverings.
• This mandate ensures that employees interacting with vulnerable populations, such as older adults or those with health conditions, do not inadvertently contribute to the spread of the virus.

Accommodations for Employees:

• Employees who are unable to wear face coverings due to medical reasons or susceptibility to COVID-19 per Matilda's Law criteria should consult with their supervisor and Human Resources.
• Reasonable accommodations can be discussed, such as providing different PPE, arranging alternate work locations or assignments, or reducing interactions with the public.
• Adelphi University, for instance, works with employees to accommodate their needs while ensuring they can continue delivering essential services in the safest way possible.

Bysection following these guidelines on face coverings and PPE, we can effectively contribute to protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Social distancing guidelines

Matilda's Law is a directive from New York State that is not a statute but rather strong guidance from the Governor to protect New York's most vulnerable populations, including individuals age 70 and older, those with compromised immune systems, and those with underlying illnesses. The following are social distancing guidelines that are part of Matilda's Law:

• Vulnerable persons, including those over 70, those with compromised immune systems, and those with underlying illnesses, should wear a mask when in the company of others.
• To the greatest extent possible, everyone in the presence of vulnerable people should wear a mask.
• Always stay at least six feet away from individuals.
• Avoid taking public transportation unless it is urgent and absolutely necessary.
• Vulnerable individuals can go outside for solitary exercise.
• Pre-screen all visitors and aides by taking their temperature.
• Do not visit households with multiple people.

These guidelines aim to flatten the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19 by focusing on protecting older adults and those with compromised health. While not a mandate, Matilda's Law provides strong recommendations to help reduce the risk of infection for those most vulnerable to the virus.

Returning to the workplace

Recommendations for Individuals:

• Awareness of Risk Factors: Understand that older adults, individuals with compromised immune systems, and those with underlying health conditions are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. If you fall into any of these categories, carefully assess the risks associated with returning to the workplace.
• Social Distancing: Maintain a distance of at least six feet from others whenever possible, both indoors and outdoors. Avoid close contact and gatherings with multiple people.
• Face Coverings: Wear a face mask when in the company of others, especially when social distancing is difficult to maintain. This is crucial for vulnerable individuals and those interacting with vulnerable populations.
• Limiting Outdoor Activities: Stay indoors whenever possible. If you need to go outside, engage in solitary activities and avoid crowded places.
• Pre-screen Visitors: If you are a vulnerable individual, consider pre-screening visitors and aides by taking their temperature before they enter your home or workplace.
• Avoid Public Transportation: Refrain from using public transportation unless it is urgent and absolutely necessary. Opt for alternative modes of transportation to minimize the risk of exposure.

Recommendations for Employers:

• Accommodating Vulnerable Employees: Employers should accommodate employees who are at higher risk, offering options such as alternate work locations, flexible work arrangements, or alternate work assignments with fewer interactions with the public.
• PPE and Health Screening: Provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to employees, ensuring they follow health screening protocols and wear face coverings when interacting with the public.
• Social Distancing in the Workplace: Rearrange physical spaces in the workplace to promote social distancing. Implement policies that encourage social distancing among employees and visitors.
• Communication and Training: Keep employees informed about the risks and provide training on proper health and safety protocols, including hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and the proper use of PPE.
• Flexible Work Policies: Consider offering flexible work arrangements, such as staggered shifts or remote work options, to reduce the number of employees in the workplace at any given time.

By following these guidelines, individuals and employers can help protect vulnerable populations while gradually returning to the workplace during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important to stay informed about the latest recommendations from public health authorities and adjust workplace policies and practices accordingly.

Frequently asked questions