Issue Position: Coronavirus Impact

Issue Position

Our state, our nation, and our world are currently facing an unprecedented challenge with the Coronavirus pandemic. First, my heart goes out to all the families who have lost loved ones, every person batting this deadly virus, and those who are suffering economically.

I want to also thank all the frontline health care workers, and every essential employee who is still on the job during this difficult time. Nurses, doctors, home health care aides, group home workers, cooks and restaurant workers, grocery store clerks, truck drivers, and so many others are still going to work every day to provide the care people need and ensure our society continues to function.

As a member of Erie County's response team, I have been left in awe of the tireless work and never ceasing drive of everyone involved in this effort. From the County Executive and our Health Commissioner, to the laborers working to maintain a safe environment for the public and essential employees, allowing them to work in confidence. It has been a testament to why we elect good leaders and how a steady hand at the helm is so important.

We must continue to confront this challenge while also thinking about the long-term impact. This crisis has laid bare the economic inequality that exists in our society. Coronavirus is disproportionately impacting communities of color. Families who live paycheck to paycheck are working to make ends meet while trying to survive everyday life. Seniors who are living on fixed incomes are seeing their savings wiped out as they battle this disease. These are difficult times for so many Western New Yorkers.

As your New York State Assemblyman, I will work every day to ensure our communities have the resources needed to address the long-term impact of Coronavirus. Our social safety net must be strengthened to ensure our economy, and our people, recover from this difficult challenge.

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