News and its distribution are essential services needed to ensure the continuing operation of government agencies and provide for the health, safety and welfare of the public.  As such, they are exempt from New York State Executive Order 202.6 and from ‘New York on PAUSE’, both of which recently took effect.

Essential retailers, including grocery, newsstands and pharmacies are also exempt from restriction.

‘New York on Pause’ is the state’s new 10-point plan designed to limit the spread of the novel COVID-19 virus. The elements are: 

1. Effective at 8PM on Sunday, March 22, all non-essential businesses statewide will be closed;
2. Non-essential gatherings of individuals of any size for any reason (e.g. parties, celebrations or other social events) are canceled or postponed at this time;
3. Any concentration of individuals outside their home must be limited to workers providing essential services and social distancing should be practiced;
4. When in public individuals must practice social distancing of at least six feet from others;
5. Businesses and entities that provide other essential services must implement rules that help facilitate social distancing of at least six feet;
6. Individuals should limit outdoor recreational activities to non-contact and avoid activities where they come in close contact with other people;
7. Individuals should limit use of public transportation to when absolutely necessary and should limit potential exposure by spacing out at least six feet from other riders;
8. Sick individuals should not leave their home unless to receive medical care and only after a tele-health visit to determine if leaving the home is in the best interest of their health;
9. Young people should also practice social distancing and avoid contact with vulnerable populations; and
10. Use precautionary sanitizer practices such as using isopropyl alcohol wipes.