New York City COVID-19 Compensation Lawyer
COVID-19 is a public health crisis. The pandemic has also taken a serious economic toll on families, businesses, and communities across New York. As a consequence of the restrictions imposed by state and local governments, many companies and organizations have sustained major financial damage. This raises an important question: What COVID-19 compensation laws are available for businesses affected by the pandemic? Here, our New York City COVID-19 compensation lawyer highlights a new proposal and explains your legal options for compensation.
An Overview of COVID-19 Compensation Law
Many business owners have questions about their right to COVID-19 compensation. Recently, lawmakers in Kansas introduced two new bills into the state legislature (Senate Bill 149 and Senate Bill 286) that would provide a path to COVID-19 compensation for businesses forced to shut down during the pandemic. As reported by the Kiowa County Press, these reforms would:
- Allow county governments to reimburse businesses for property taxes paid while they were shut down; and
- Require the state government to reimburse a portion of the property taxes of affected businesses.
It remains to be seen whether the bills will make it through the state legislature. Unfortunately for business owners, no similar COVID-19 compensation relief is making progress in New York. Though, the New York Department of Finance has previously announced reductions in the penalties and interest rate for late payment of property taxes.
COVID-19 Restrictions and Business Takings in New York
Under the United States Constitution and the New York State Constitution, private property owners are protected from the taking of their property for “public use, without just compensation.” In some cases, the COVID-19 public health response of a federal, state, or local government or government agency could potentially constitute a business taking. As an example, if a government seized a company’s personal protective equipment (PPE) for public use, compensation may be owed. However, these are highly complex, fact-specific cases. If you are considering filing a business taking lawsuit related to COVID-19, please consult with a qualified attorney.
How New York City Attorney Harry D. Lewis Can Help
COVID-19 compensation claims are complicated. Business owners need a strong, reliable advocate in their corner. With more than 40 decades of practice, Harry D. Lewis has the skills and experience that you can rely on for results. Mr. Lewis represents New York businesses and business owners in state and federal takings claims. Our law firm will help you explore every available avenue for COVID-19 compensation, including:
- Business takings litigation;
- Business interruption coverage and other commercial insurance claims; and
- State, federal, and local programs for COVID-19 compensation.
Call Our New York COVID-19 Compensation Lawyer for a Confidential Consultation
At The Law Office of Harry D. Lewis, Our New York COVID-19 takings attorney is an experienced, knowledgeable advocate for business owners and entrepreneurs. If you have any questions about your options for COVID-19 compensation, we are ready to help. Contact us today to arrange a fully confidential initial case evaluation. From our office in Manhattan, we represent clients throughout the region, including in Queens, The Bronx, Brooklyn, and Staten Island.
