‘Very real possibility’ of rolling back reopenings in NY, Cuomo says

NEW YORK — While the number of COVID-19 cases reported in New York state is trending downward, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said residents “must stay vigilant” in taking safety precautions, including social distancing.

Currently, New York City is in phase one of four of reopening. The rest of the state is in phase two.

Phase one allows delivery, curbside and in-store pickup services for wholesale trade, manufacturing and retail businesses, including clothing stores, general merchandise stores, book stores and personal care stores. Curbside food pickup is also permitted in the city.

Malls remain closed. Socially distanced outdoor dining is allowed at restaurants in phase two.

State parks and beaches are open, and gatherings of 10 or less are allowed statewide. Social distancing is encouraged even among smaller groups.

“Since reopening, almost half the states have seen an increase in COVID cases. That hasn’t happened in New York. Let’s keep it that way,” Cuomo wrote on Twitter. “The pandemic isn’t over and we must keep being vigilant.”

Later in the day, Cuomo said state officials have received 25,000 complaints regarding infractions of state-imposed guidelines for reopening amid coronavirus.

Cuomo said businesses that violate the guidelines could face consequences, such as losing vital licenses, and residents in violation can be fined.

He said the majority of offenders are in Manhattan and the Hamptons in Long Island.

“We’ve never received so many complaints in such a short period of time," Cuomo said. “There is a very real possibility that we would roll back the reopening in those areas.”

He said people are reporting violations because they believe their health is being jeopardized.

Cuomo also said it isn’t hard to find infractions.

“People send video of the violations. You can look it up on social media. You don’t need a detective squad to find it,” he said.

Cuomo reposted a video on Twitter that showed large crowds gathering in St. Marks Place in New York City’s East Village on Friday. Many people weren’t wearing masks.

The governor said he personally called many business owners, specifically bars and restaurants, regarding the infractions and guidelines, reminding them that they are breaking the law.

He also called on police to enforce social distancing between groups of people.

“I’m warning today, in a nice way, the consequences of your actions,” Cuomo said. “I’m not going to allow situations to exist that we know have a high likelihood to cause an increase in the spread of the virus.”

Cuomo issued a warning relevant to local leaders, business owners, residents and law enforcement: “Do your job.”

Cox Media Group