Assemblyman David DiPietro (R,C-East Aurora) held a press conference today with Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt and other colleagues in the state Senate, Congresswoman Claudia Tenney and representatives from Congresswoman Elise Stefanik’s office to introduce the his Essential Caregivers Act (bill #A.10497). This legislation is designed to protect residents in long-term care facilities and ensure they maintain crucial connections with their loved ones, even during public health emergencies.

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed a devastating reality when long-term care facilities closed their doors to visitors and residents suffered severe consequences. Cut off from family and friends, residents faced not only the threat of a deadly virus but also the crippling effects of isolation and the absence of personal advocates.

“Isolation shouldn’t be the price of safety. We owe it to our most vulnerable to protect their bodies and their spirits. This legislation will help ensure residents will never again be left to endure months of isolation without the support and love they need,” said DiPietro.

“We must also safeguard their mental, emotional and social well-being. The Essential Caregivers Act is about giving residents a voice so they have someone by their side when they need it the most,” DiPietro concluded.

Sen. Borrello added, “Elderly New Yorkers in our nursing homes are among our most vulnerable residents. Without question, their emotional and social well-being is enhanced by interaction with family and caregivers who visit and assist them. That is why I support providing more access to caregivers who have loved ones in our nursing homes, while also ensuring health and safety standards are upheld. I would like to thank Assemblyman DiPietro and all those raising their voices in support and concern for our older New Yorkers.”

Sen. Gallivan, who represents the town of East Aurora in the Senate, said, “During the COVID-19 pandemic, the state’s strict ban on outside visitation left many nursing home residents completely isolated from their families. Allowing patients to designate an essential caregiver who would have unrestricted access to them and the facility will support the physical, mental and emotional well-being of residents and further enhance their quality of life.”

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney remarked, “The Essential Caregivers Act strikes an important balance between maintaining public health safety and allowing access to loved ones in long-term care facilities. Thank you to Assemblymember DiPietro for your dedication to this initiative and for introducing this legislation in the New York State Assembly. We must continue our efforts to safeguard the rights and well-being of residents in long-term care facilities and their families.”

There is an urgent need for comprehensive care that includes the essential role of caregivers. This legislation is a crucial step toward ensuring the rights and well-being of long-term care residents are respected.