“Since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, New York State has taken extensive measures to reduce the spread of the disease and protect vulnerable residents. I, along with my North Country colleagues, have consistently advocated for more testing availability so we could begin a regional reopening. Now that the North Country has surpassed the necessary metrics for phase 1, I want to thank all the local leaders and congratulate the region on meeting this goal and I am pleased that we can begin the gradual process of lifting restrictions in the North Country and begin to reopen the economy.

“I have continuously indicated that our North Country economy would take longer to recover than other regions, and it is clear that it has suffered devastating impacts by NY-PAUSE. Therefore, it’s critical now more than ever that we support local small businesses as we begin the reopening process. Returning to normalcy will take time and patience, and it’s crucial that we all remain vigilant and continue to protect our fellow New Yorkers. I will continue to work with local officials and health care professionals so that we can move into the next phase of NY-Forward.”