Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the New York State Insurance Fund (NYSIF), the state's not-for-profit workers' compensation insurer, has launched its Extreme Heat Equipment Credit for 2026. First available in 2025, the credit is available to small businesses that purchase personal protective equipment (PPE) to safeguard employees against the effects of extreme heat. Eligible policyholders can now access the 2026 credit, allowing them to lower their workers' compensation premium by up to $1,000 this year.

"Over the last several years, which have been the hottest in human history, my administration has worked hard to help New Yorkers prepare for and mitigate the impact of extreme heat events through initiatives including the interagency Extreme Heat Action Plan and NYSIF's innovative equipment credit," Governor Hochul said. "By assisting with the costs of heat-related PPE, NYSIF has made it more affordable for small businesses to keep their workers safe from dangerous heat conditions-especially important as we approach what is expected to be another record-breaking summer of high temperatures."

NYSIF Executive Director and CEO Gaurav Vasisht said, "Extreme heat has become an extreme occupational hazard for many New York workers, posing a heightened risk of injury, illness and death in the workplace. We are proud to offer this support to our small employers so they can better promote the health and safety of their workers, part of Governor Hochul's commitment to protecting New Yorkers from environmental hazards and her record of prioritizing affordability for New York businesses.

New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, "This initiative reflects our shared commitment to worker safety in New York State. By offering this credit, the State is partnering with businesses to ensure that every employee has the protection they deserve when facing the challenges of extreme heat. Together, we can build a safer and more resilient workforce."

State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey said, "As we face increasingly record-breaking summers, we cannot ignore the physical toll that extreme heat takes on the New Yorkers keep our communities running. No worker should have to risk their life or health simply because of the cost of safety equipment. I want to thank Governor Hochul and my colleagues in government for making small business owners and their employees' well-being a priority. We remain committed to providing the resources to keep New Yorkers safe in extreme climate conditions.

State Senator Jessica Ramos said, "As temperatures rise, protecting workers from dangerous heat conditions must remain a priority. I appreciate Governor Hochul and NYSIF for helping small businesses access equipment that keeps workers safe on the job. As extreme heat becomes more common, New York must continue advancing stronger protections, so no worker is forced to risk their health just to earn a paycheck."

Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson said, "As global temperatures rise, workers face increasing danger from extreme heat in the course of their daily work. As Labor Chair, my priority will always be to keep people safe on the job. The NYSIF Extreme Heat Equipment Credit provides an affordable way for small businesses to ensure heat-safe job sites with relief for the cost of PPE protection measures and lowering their workers' compensation premiums."

Assemblymember Clyde Vanel said, "Extreme heat is becoming more frequent and more dangerous. As a result, we have an obligation to ensure that our workers are protected on the job. This program will help small businesses take meaningful steps to keep their employees safe and reduce avoidable workplace emergencies. I commend Governor Hochul for advancing a practical solution that supports both worker safety and the small businesses that are the backbone of our communities."

As highlighted in NYSIF's 2024 Report, extreme heat can lead to illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke and other occupational injuries. NYSIF's Extreme Heat Equipment Credit helps employers minimize these risks, reducing their workers' compensation premiums when they purchase heat-related PPE. The program provides a 10 percent premium credit, up to $1,000 for PPE purchases: fans, ventilation systems, ventilated hard hats, wide-brimmed hats, cooling vests, cooling towels and any other items that protect workers exposed to high temperatures in indoor or outdoor settings.

Following the launch and expansion of the program announced last year, the program is available to businesses that have up to 10 employees, or an annual premium of $10,000 or less, and are engaged in manufacturing, warehousing, carpentry, farming, landscaping, firefighting, roofing, insulation work, wallboard installation, electrical wiring, plumbing and restaurants. To obtain the credit, policyholders can simply upload their receipts through their NYSIF online accounts. More information can be found at the NYSIF website at nysif.com/ppe.

About NYSIF
NYSIF is the largest workers' compensation insurer in New York State and among the ten largest nationwide. NYSIF covers 2 million workers and insures 200,000 employers in New York State. NYSIF's mission is to guarantee the availability of workers' compensation, disability insurance and paid family leave at the lowest possible cost to New York employers while maintaining a solvent fund. Since its inception over 110 years ago, NYSIF has fulfilled this mission by competing with other insurance carriers to ensure a fair marketplace while serving as a guaranteed source of coverage for employers that cannot secure coverage elsewhere. NYSIF strives to achieve the best health outcomes for injured workers and be an industry leader in price, quality, and service for New York employers. For more information, visit nysif.com. Follow NYSIF on Facebook,X,Instagram,YouTube and LinkedIn. Listen to our NYSIF FUNDamental podcast on your favorite streaming platform.