Beginning today, after months of visitation restrictions, families of individuals with developmental disabilities living in group homes will finally be able to reunite with their loved ones. I am extremely proud of the efforts of the Assembly Minority Conference to ensure these critically important in-person visitations can begin once again.

During the past several weeks, the families of group-home residents waited patiently as restrictions in other areas and industries were lifted. Businesses re-opened, summer camps were approved to operate, overcrowded rallies and protests were allowed, even inmate visitations at state prisons were given clearance – all before any kind of guidance was provided to the professionals and patients in group homes and day habilitation programs.

Assemblywomen Missy Miller, Mary Beth Walsh, and Assemblyman Ed Ra worked tirelessly to push Gov. Cuomo and state health officials to find a way to make these visits possible. On June 9, they wrote to the governor calling for coordination with the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities and the Department of Health to find a way to help those suffering due to these restrictive policies. Their leadership, commitment and advocacy were instrumental in that effort.

Those staying in group homes and day habilitation programs thrive on important socialization with loved ones. Much of their rehabilitation is predicated on established routines. Without them, residents risk losing important progress and may suffer serious emotional damage. We heard troubling stories of families separated for weeks, of special needs children waiting for parental visits that weren’t allowed and would never come, of the extreme frustration and depression felt by many who were deprived of the most important connections they have.

For these reasons, our Conference fought hard for these needed policy adjustments. Vulnerable New Yorkers deserve the same rights and privileges being afforded to the countless other individuals and families dealing with the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is a victory for the patients and professionals of the developmental disability community. After a prolonged, emotional fight, they can celebrate that today common sense and compassion finally prevailed.

It was unnecessary and inexplicable how long these visits were denied, considering other efforts to un-pause New York were up-and-running weeks ago. I am extremely pleased state officials have heeded our calls and developed a plan. We must never ignore the needs of any New Yorkers, especially those who rely so heavily on the care and support of others. Their voices, too, must be heard and their needs must be met.

As we continue to emerge from the health crisis that has consumed so much of our time and energy, it is critical we are vigilant and ensure no one is overlooked.