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NYC Offers Return to 2,900 Workers Fired Over COVID Vaccine Mandate

Reinstatement hinges on a DCAS rule change followed by state civil service approval after a Nov. 19 hearing.

Overview

  • The offer covers former employees across mayoral agencies, public schools, and NYCHA, restoring previous titles and salaries without back pay or service credit.
  • Most returns require a DCAS rule change and New York State Civil Service Commission approval, while non‑competitive and school‑based staff can be reinstated without the rule change.
  • DCAS set a virtual public hearing for Nov. 19, and former employees must contact their agencies to express interest by Dec. 5.
  • City Hall says agencies may reorganize to place returning workers and that funding is available, as the city reports roughly 14,000 vacancies.
  • The plan does not affect ongoing lawsuits by former workers, and about 450 previously terminated employees had already been rehired after the mandate was lifted in 2023.