Times Square will welcome back vaccinated guests for its New Years Eve celebration. Image Credit: Edwin J. Torres/Mayoral Photo Office.

After many closures last year, the holiday season welcomes back guests and spectators to New York City with some limitations. The COVID-19 pandemic greatly shaped holiday festivities citywide last year, with the cancellation of many live in-person events, restrictions to televised-only events, and closures of many beloved shows and attractions that draw thousands of visitors to New York City each year. After significant progress has been made in the fight against COVID-19, New York City is ready to welcome back holiday revelers. (read more…)

The COVID-19 pandemic brings many changes to the NYC holiday season, including the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This year, balloons will be operated by specially rigged cars instead of handlers like here at the 2017 parade. Image Credit: Benjamin Kanter/Mayoral Photo Office.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, NYC’s holiday season will look different than prior years. Some events have been outright cancelled, and some have been altered, with many opting for a virtual experience to prevent crowds to limit the spread of COVID-19.  (read more…)

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo holds a coronavirus briefing Image Credit: Governors Office

New York City becomes final region in state to reach Phase 4 of reopening. On July 20, 2020, New York City officially entered a modified Phase 4 of the State’s reopening plan. Phase 4 in New York City marks the final stage of the State’s plan but should not be understood to mean that all industries, businesses and practices are back to pre-COVID-19 operations. Phase 4 industries include low-risk outdoor arts and entertainment, professional sports with no spectators, and media production like movies, music and television productions. Low-risk outdoor venues include zoos and botanical gardens, which are required to operate at no greater than a thirty-three percent capacity.

(read more…)

A sign at Cadman Plaza Park, Brooklyn reminding visitors to social distance./Image Credit: May Vutrapongvatana

The First Amendment allows the State to pass public health regulations that impact the manner of protests if they are written and enforced neutrally. On May 25, 2020, George Floyd was killed by a police officer while in the custody of the Minneapolis Police Department. Since Floyd’s death, demonstrations and rallies have been held in different parts of the City to protest systemic racism and law enforcement misconduct. Taking place on City’s streets, sidewalks, and in parks, the protests have drawn crowds of thousands of people which has raised concerns over the spread of COVID-19.

(read more…)

Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings Image Credit: OATH

OATH to continue virtual operations as COVID pandemic lingers. On April 7, 2020, Chief Administrative Law Judge, Hon Joni Kletter issued an administrative order continuing the temporary suspension and modification of laws related to the COVID-19 outbreak in New York City. The order directs that the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings’, the body responsible for adjudicating for all City agencies, remain physically closed until at least May 4, 2020. The Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings, locally referred to as “OATH,” will accommodate rescheduling requests, and for eligible summonses, provide a telephonic hearing option. To view OATH’s online hearing platform click here.

(read more…)