New York Capital Brief:

NY Adopts CDC’s Eased Mask Mandate

On Tuesday, Governor Cuomo announced that New York is adopting the CDC’s new guidance for mask-wearing. The guidance states that fully vaccinated Americans no longer need to wear a mask outdoors while walking, running, hiking or biking alone, or when in small gatherings, including with members of their own households. Masks are still necessary in crowded outdoor venues like sports stadiums.

To view the CDC’s new guidance, click here.

 

Upcoming Changes to Capacity Limits

Effective May 3rd, residential catered events can resume, as long as the events are staffed by a professional, licensed caterer and strictly adhere to health and safety guidance, including social and event gathering limits, masks, and social distancing.

Effective May 15th, office capacity is expanded to 75% and gym capacity is expanded to 50%.

Effective May 17th, food and beverage service curfews will be removed for outdoor dining areas.

Effective May 31st, food and beverage service curfews will be removed for indoor dining areas.

Effective May 3, seating at bars will be allowed in New York City.

 

NY Loses a Congressional Seat

As a result of the 2020 U.S. Census count, New York State will lose one seat in Congress after the 2022 election. The population data suggests that if just 89 more New Yorkers had filled out the census, NY would have retained all 27 seats. Governor Cuomo is asking the State Attorney General to review legal options.

“I’m calling on the Attorney General to review all legal options available to ensure the voice of every New Yorker is fairly and wholly represented in the halls of Congress,” Cuomo said.

 

Resuming Use of J&J Vaccine

After the federal government lifted it’s 11 day pause on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine on 4/23, Governor Cuomo announced that New York will immediately resume it’s use of the vaccine at all state-run mass vaccination sites.

“The data has shown the vaccine’s known benefits far outweigh the potential and extremely rare risks, but we urge anyone with questions about the COVID-19 vaccines to speak with their healthcare provider. We will continue to communicate regular updates and guidance from the federal government to providers and the general public about the Johnson & Johnson vaccine and all vaccines on the market,” said Dr. Zucker, Commissioner of the State Department of Health.