“At a time when suffering upstate regions need clarity and confidence, they’ve gotten only more confusion. The governor’s acknowledgement that upstate regions may not begin tomorrow’s Phase II reopening compounds the problems for businesses, employees and industries struggling to survive.

Businesses across New York have been forced into near ruin, yet were poised to finally reopen their doors tomorrow. Today, they learned that ‘international experts’ will determine when they will be allowed to resume operations – rather than local professionals who know their communities.

Regional representatives have worked hard to set the stage for strategic, safe economic recoveries. Areas preparing to reopen their economies needed planning, guidance and collaboration. Instead, they’ve received shifting criteria and additional delays.

The confusion needs to end. New Yorkers are ready to get back to work, and it’s time to get New York back on its feet.”