I can safely say that not a day goes by that we don’t get dozens of calls or emails asking when New York is going to “get back to normal”. While I suspect that normal has changed a great deal, I understand the question. Today, I’m going to try and answer that question but with two caveats. The first caveat is that I can’t give you a definitive date. I can get pretty close but definite is not possible. The second is that everything I’m about to say is subject to change and based largely on US and our ability to continue to flatten the curve.

Yesterday the Governor provided more detail about what industries are coming back. He’s identified four phases in his plan. That’s illustrated in the picture you see below. The good news? Construction continues to be the Governor’s top priority. The bad news? You might be waiting a bit longer for that haircut (and color).

The question now shifts to when each phase will kick in. That’s outlined in the chart you see below. The Governor has outlined 7 key components that each region of the state will need to monitor. The chart outlines where each region sits today and identifies the areas that need to be addressed to get Phase 1 moving and get started toward Phase 2, 3 and 4.  

Based on everything I’ve been able to put together, May 15 ^th is still the proper target date. That’s when the current extension of the Governor’s PAUSE program will expire. A few of the regions will hit the 7 key markers and will be off and running. Other regions will be a little bit later once they can meet the key indicators. But I’d be surprised if we don’t see all regions in Phase 1 before the end of the month. I’ve got my fingers crossed that my crystal ball isn’t cracked!

Again, let me remind you of that one caveat. The one where it’s up to us. Whether or not you agree with the Governor or his policies is largely irrelevant. He’s in control of the game. Should a region choose not to play along, then that region will wait while the rest of the state gets back to work and that elusive “new normal”. No one wants to see that happen. 

We’re too close now to let this slip through our fingers. Let’s continue to design and implement best practices to keep your workers, your company, your projects and the community safe from a new COVID-19 outbreak.

As always, please reach out with any questions or concerns. Our team has been, and always will be, here for you every step of the way!

Stay safe. Stay healthy.

Brian Sampson

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) continues its efforts to support American workers and position the economy for a strong rebound. DOL is hosting a national online dialogue,  Opening America’s Workplaces Again about the challenges that may be faced as businesses reopen and how best to help employers and workers safely reopen America’s workplaces.

This national online dialogue is hosted by DOL’s Office of Compliance Initiatives in partnership with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Wage and Hour Division, Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Employment and Training Administration, Office of Disability Employment Policy, Veterans’ Employment and Training Service, and Women’s Bureau.

The public—including employers, workers, labor unions, local authorities, and advocacy groups—is invited to participate in the dialogue from April 30 through May 7, 2020.



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Fifth Class of Core and Construction Craft Laborers Graduate

ABC Empire Chapter congratulates the fifth class of soldiers to graduate from our Fort Drum Training Program.

Th e spring Construction Craft L aborer (CCL) class was comprised of five individuals with little or no experience in general construction or carpentry. The class had its ups and downs with the learning curve, as with any class, but managed to succeed completing the Core and Carpentry 1 requirements. During their time they also completed a 10 hour OSHA certification.

The class was tasked with a project for a disabled veteran. When it came down to do their class project the complexity at first provided some hardship. The project consisted of an octagon shape gazebo. For anyone that has done anything in that shape, even in a small scale it is complex and requires a more advanced skill set. By the time the project was completed, the students gained significant experience in carpentry and general construction.

Out of our five graduates, two individuals are staying in the local area and are pursing joining an apprenticeship program.

ABC Empire State is proud to support our soldiers as they make the transition from service to the construction industry.

For more information about the program, please contact Jeff Albert at [email protected].

Virtual Safety Awareness Training

Statewide Director of Safety, Craft Training, and Workforce Development,

Jason Ashlaw is offering the following

Safety Awareness Trainings:

Confined Space : Thursday, May 7th 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Excavation Safety : Tuesday, May 12th 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Stairs & Ladders Training : Thursday, May 14th 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Cost: $80 per person, per course.

**Virtual training requires Laptop with a camera or smart phone with internet access

To register, contact Amy Platenik: [email protected] (585) 363-1657