Western New York and Capital Region on Track for Phase 3 Reopening Next Week
Western New York and the Capital Region are on track to begin Phase 3 of the New York Forward reopening process next week. Western New York could begin Phase 3 on Tuesday, June 16th, while the Capital Region could begin on Wednesday, June 17th. Both regions must have their COVID-19 data cleared by international experts before officially beginning Phase 3.
COVID-19-Related Legislation Enacted
Governor Cuomo has signed legislation (S.8275-A/A.10348) suspending the forfeiture of unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 state of emergency. Individuals who have had forfeit penalties levied against them from past claims currently are unable to collect their unemployment benefits. This new law will protect individuals’ ability to collect benefits in this situation.
The Governor also signed legislation (S.8415/A.10446-A) repealing criminalization of wearing a mask in public. This new law removes any legal conflicts with a previous Executive Order requiring New Yorkers to wear face coverings while in public to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
New York State COVID-19 Numbers
New York State has reached the lowest number of hospitalizations and deaths since the pandemic began. That said, there still were 32 deaths yesterday from COVID-19. While highlighting surging COVID-19 rates in 22 other states and Puerto Rico, the Governor stressed that New Yorkers must remain vigilant to continue the State’s recent progress.
