Federal/State Tension on Reopening the Economy

Governor Cuomo spent considerable time during his daily briefing addressing President Trump’s declaration that he can overrule state governors to reopen local economies.  The Governor stated he will not get into a political fight with the President on this issue, but he also will not cede his mandate to protect New Yorkers’ health and safety if any conflicting directives arise.

Regional Approach to Economic Reopening

Massachusetts has joined New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Connecticut and Rhode Island in a seven-state council to reopen the economy and return people to work.  The Governor’s briefing today did not provide any further details about this council’s activities and potential actions.

New York State COVID-19 Plateau

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 plateau.

Health officials are concerned about the number of COVID-19 deaths in nursing homes, but simultaneously they recognize the natural vulnerability of that population and have not announced any new strategies to combat this dilemma.

COVID-19 Numbers

As of today, 202,208 people have tested positive in New York State.  The number of deaths in the State has increased to 10,834 from 10,056.