Senators Martucci and Palumbo Urge OPWDD to Update Quarantine Policies Based on New CDC Guidelines

            Senator Mike Martucci (R,C,I-Hudson Valley/Catskills) and Senator Anthony Palumbo (R,C-New Suffolk) today urged the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) and the Office of People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) to follow new Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines on quarantine for group home residents who are vaccinated.

            Last week, the CDC removed the need to quarantine for those in non-healthcare congregate settings who have been vaccinated.

“OPWDD should adopt this CDC guidance immediately and end the needless quarantines of vaccinated residents,” said Senator Mike Martucci, “The Cuomo administration has a record of prioritizing political science over the health and wellness of vulnerable populations. That calculus must not be allowed to rule the day here. Residents and their families deserve an end to the isolation and stress caused by these needless quarantines.”

            “Several constituents and people from across the state have reached out to my office regarding OPWDD’s quarantine policies in group homes and the impact it has on their loved ones,” said Senator Palumbo. “Social isolation is hard on everyone but is extremely difficult on those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I urge OPWDD and the Health Department to follow the CDC guidelines and end quarantines for vaccinated residents in group homes immediately. It is the right thing to do.”

            Senators Martucci and Palumbo argued that OPWDD and the Cuomo administration have shown a lack of transparency and accountability in relation to their policies affecting nursing homes and OPWDD group homes alike. While they have claimed to “follow the science,” that has not always been the case. Two clear examples were their deadly orders issued last March and April requiring Nursing Homes and OPWDD facilities to readmit COVID positive patients and residents. THE OPWDD order is still in effect today, despite the fact that it is contrary to expert guidance and common sense.

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