Senator Mattera Stands Up For Healthcare Heroes

Senator Mario R. Mattera (2^nd Senate District) recently sent a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul requesting flexibility for healthcare employees who will be forced to leave their careers if they choose to forgo the COVID-19 vaccine.  Senator Mattera made it clear in the letter that these heroes, who were on the front-lines of the fight against COVID-19 since before a vaccine was available, should have the option to be tested daily so they can remain in their much-needed positions.

“At tremendous risk to themselves, our healthcare heroes have been there for our community throughout this crisis and New York State must not turn its back on them now.  The current policy is a recipe for disaster that needs to be amended before we put all New Yorkers at risk,” stated Senator Mattera.

Senator Mattera’s letter was in response to a New York State Department of Health order that mandates that all health care workers in hospitals and senior facilities be vaccinated by September 27, 2021.  This left these healthcare heroes without the option of testing as they work to care for the community. 

With the ability to test unavailable to them, these employees must decide whether to receive a vaccination or lose their jobs.  This will essentially mean that these brave men and women will be forced out of the very jobs the State lauded them over the past 18 months.

This while there is currently a statewide nursing shortage in healthcare facilities that has already put a strain on these healthcare professionals and those they care for.  This is why Senator Mattera supported the safe staffing legislation that was passed only three months ago and why he urges Governor Hochul to reconsider this dangerous mandate.

Please click here to view a copy of the letter.