Saratoga Standard

Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R,C-Ballston) joined Congressman Marc Molinaro, Voices for Seniors Co-Founder Vivian Zayas, and Director Tracey Alvino in a press conference at the New York State Capitol. The event aimed to renew calls for an independent review on the four-year anniversary of the Department of Health’s COVID nursing home order that mandated nursing homes to admit COVID-positive patients.

During the press conference, Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R,C-Pulaski) addressed the lack of progress in conducting an independent audit of the state's COVID response. He expressed disappointment in the failure of the "Reimagining Long-Term Care Task Force" to fulfill its responsibilities, stating, "We’re 16 months past the inception of the ‘Reimagining Long-Term Care Task Force,’ yet we’re left empty-handed with no accountability and no solutions."

Voices for Seniors Co-Founder Vivian Zayas and Director Tracey Alvino shared personal stories highlighting the devastating impact of Governor Cuomo's order. Alvino emphasized the human toll, stating, "over 15,000 seniors died by the stroke of Andrew Cuomo’s pen." The speakers stressed the importance of seeking accountability and transparency for the decisions that led to such tragic outcomes.

In response to the lack of action and transparency, Assemblywoman Walsh called for a proper emergency assessment and urged for answers and respect for the families affected by the nursing home order. She emphasized, "It’s time for answers, it’s time for transparency, it’s time to show respect to the families who lost loved ones due to the decisions made."

The press conference served as a reminder of the need for accountability and a comprehensive review of the state's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in relation to nursing homes. The voices of those impacted by the tragic consequences of the nursing home order continue to advocate for justice and transparency in memory of the lives lost.