New York City School Closure Confusion

Earlier today, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that the City’s schools will remain closed for the remainder of the school year.  In response, Governor Cuomo disputed the Mayor’s authority to issue this order.  The Governor stated that there has been no official decision on closing the City’s schools and that any decision should be coordinated with the larger metropolitan region that includes Long Island and Westchester County; preferably, such a decision also would include schools throughout New York State and even the states of New Jersey and Connecticut. 

Assistance for New Yorkers

The Governor called on the federal government to repeal ban on SALT deductions (state and local taxes that can be deducted on a federal income tax return), arguing this would do the most to assist the states and areas most impacted by COVID-19.  Additionally, the Governor announced that the New York State Court System will engage pro bono lawyers to help individuals struggling through various aspects of the pandemic, including assistance with filing for SBA loans.  Interested lawyers can visit nysba.org/covidvolunteer for more information.

New York State COVID-19 Curve Continues Flattening

Much of today’s public health messaging remained the same as yesterday’s.  New York State officials continue to see a flattening curve for COVID-19 hospitalizations, but the State must continue the “New York State on PAUSE” business and social protocols to maintain this promising trend.  The Governor highlighted that the number of intubations experienced a net decrease for the first time yesterday, and that this is a very positive sign.

COVID-19 Numbers

As of today, 180,458 people have tested positive in New York State.  The number of deaths in the State has increased to 8,627 from 7,844.