Time & Attendance Guidance for State Employees Impacted by Recent Storm

Bronze Buffalo in winter.

Published January 6, 2026

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Recently, severe weather affecting Erie County resulted in the New York State Office of Employee Relations (OER) to direct telecommuting, early departure, and absence without charge to accruals.

These directives only apply to Level 2, formerly known as non-essential employees who were scheduled to work on the affected dates of December 29, 2025, through December 31, 2025.

Employees who were already on pre-approved vacation, other approved leave, or out due to illness on these dates are not eligible for storm-related non-chargeable time.

Level 2 (Non-Essential) Employees

Monday, December 29

  • Non-essential employees were directed to telecommute after 10:00 a.m., where operationally feasible.
  • Employees unable to telecommute are permitted to be absent without charge to leave accruals as of 10:00 a.m.

Tuesday, December 30

  • Non-essential employees were directed to telecommute for the full workday, where operationally feasible.
  • Employees unable to telecommute are permitted to be absent without charge to leave accruals as of the start of their shift.

Wednesday, December 31

  • Non-essential employees were directed to telecommute for the full workday, where operationally feasible.
  • Employees unable to telecommute are permitted to be absent without charge to leave accruals as of the start of their shift.

SUNY Time & Attendance System Coding

Eligible non-essential employees must record storm-related excusals using the non-chargeable time entry type: 

  • Extraordinary/Inclement Weather

Supervisors are responsible for confirming employee eligibility prior to approving Time & Attendance submissions.

Level 1 (Essential Employees)

Essential employees were required to report to work as directed on all affected dates.

  • Essential employees who were unable to report to work due to storm-related conditions must charge appropriate non-sick leave accruals, such as vacation, personal, holiday, or compensatory time, in accordance with policy.

Questions or Assistance

Employees and supervisors who need assistance with eligibility determination or Time & Attendance coding may contact us at 716-645-7777 or ub-hr-timeandattendance@buffalo.edu

Contact an Expert

  • avatar.

    UB HR Time and Attendance

    State Benefit Services

    Phone: 716-645-7777

    Email: ub-hr-timeandattendance@buffalo.edu