Nick Reisman is reporting for State of Politics under a measure set to be voted on this week by the state Senate, New York workplaces would be required to put in place minimum safety rules for operating during the COVID-19 pandemic. The NY HERO Act would require the state Department of Labor and Department of Health to implement the rules, which would include protocols for testing, personal protective equipment, hand washing, social distancing and engineering controls.  Senator Mike Gianaris acknowledged the many workers who have already sacrificed their health for the community good. "The New York HERO Act will honor their efforts by giving workers the tools to protect themselves while on the job. I appreciate the support for this proposal from my colleagues in both houses and so many organizations throughout New York," he said. The bill is coming up for a vote as workplaces around New York consider how to bring workers back safely one year after the first confirmed COVID-19 case in New York. The legislation has the backing of labor unions, including the umbrella organization AFL-CIO as well as safety groups. Read the full story at nystateofpolitics [dot] com.