What do cluster action initiative zones mean for Uber drivers?
On October 6, 2020, Governor Cuomo announced the Cluster Action Initiative, with new rules and restrictions targeting areas across New York with the highest concentration of COVID-19 cases and their surrounding communities.
Areas are classed as either Red (the cluster itself), Orange (warning area), or Yellow (precautionary area) Zones, and the new rules apply for a minimum of 14 days.
The Cluster Action Initiative means different restrictions for different areas. As an Uber driver your job will take you to a multitude of addresses and probably across various zones. So, what exactly does the Cluster Action Initiative mean for you and your work?
New York State regards for-hire vehicles as essential infrastructure, meaning that you can continue to operate normally within the Cluster Action Initiative regardless of the zone in which you live or typically work. But, you must wear a face covering and should frequently deep clean your vehicle.
So the initiative’s introduction doesn’t directly affect rideshare drivers, but the activity restrictions of each zone may well affect rider demand and pickup locations. Updated on November 18, click here to find out more about the cluster areas and their current zones.
Below is a summary of the type of activity permitted or prohibited in each zone (Red, Orange and Yellow). Please note that effective from November 13, 2020, all indoor and outdoor gatherings at private homes are limited to no more than 10 people.
Source: New York Forward, Cluster Action Initiative
On November 13, Governor Cuomo also ordered all bars, restaurants and gyms to close between 10pm and 5am until further notice. This is with the exception of takeout and delivery. Delivery work is considered essential and is therefore unaffected by the Cluster Action Initiative.
Sources:
https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-new-cluster-action-initiative
https://forward.ny.gov/cluster-action-initiative
https://esd.ny.gov/guidance-executive-order-2026
