Gov. Andrew Cuomo extended New York’s social distancing order until May 15 and expressed uncertainty about what actions the state will take next.
Speaking at a news conference on Thursday, the governor said that New York has been able to control the “beast” coronavirus thanks to restrictions on nonessential businesses and public gatherings. But he also added that the measures need to continue for at least another few weeks.
“We have to continue doing what we’re doing. I’d like to see that infection rate get down even more,” Cuomo said.
He noted that the lockdown extension, which came after the state was previously set to lift coronavirus orders on April 30, will be done in coordination with other states.
“I don’t want to project beyond that period. That’s about one month. One month is a long time,” Cuomo said. “People need certainty and clarity, so they can plan. I need a coordinated action plan with the other states. So, one month, we’ll continue the close-down policies.”
“What happens after then? I don’t know. We will see, depending on what the data shows,” he added.
The governor also tweeted the announcement and emphasized that New Yorkers “must STAY THE COURSE” during the pandemic.
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New York on PAUSE will be extended in coordination with other states to May 15.
Non-essential workers must continue to stay home.
Social distancing rules remain in place.
We must STAY THE COURSE.
— Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) April 16, 2020
New York has been the hardest-hit state during the health crisis, with more than 200,000 infections and thousands of deaths.
