“Just a day after our joint Zoom press conference, the governor has done the right thing by reinstating visitation for group homes certified by the NYS Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) with safe and responsible protocols in place. This is a great step forward for the families who have been separated during the past few incredibly difficult months. Thank you to Assemblywoman Melissa “Missy” Miller (R,C,I-Atlantic Beach) and Assemblyman Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square), Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro, parents and consumers for your incredible advocacy. It is so critically important to give a voice to those who otherwise may be voiceless.

“That being said, our work is far from done. My colleagues and I will continue to advocate for steps forward that help individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities slowly and safely return to the structure and stability they need in their lives.”