“We have seen a growing number of experts oppose shutdowns in dealing with COVID-19, including the World Health Organization, which points to the disproportionate negative impact on the poor. We know the devastating effects the shutdowns have had on our local economy and the physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of New Yorkers. I appreciate that the governor has finally taken our warnings seriously and has just stopped prison visitation. It has been a recipe for easy spread of the virus and should have been stopped weeks ago.

“Our local businesses have just started to resume operations after having to endure the initial pandemic lockdown earlier this year, despite our region having the lowest rates of COVID-19 in the state at the time. The governor’s zone approach wrongfully and unfairly targets our local businesses, ripping away income for many hardworking residents once again. A new containment approach is needed.”