Statement from Senator Patty Ritchie

Like many others, I was stunned to learn of the Governor’s top aide’s private admission that the administration deliberately withheld data about COVID-19 deaths in New York’s nursing homes. I know though what I feel pales in comparison to the heartbreak, anguish and betrayal that continues to be felt by the loved ones of more than 15,000 men and women who tragically died in elder care facilities.

For nearly a year, lawmakers and family members have been pleading for answers. Instead of being transparent, it is now clear the Governor and his administration opted to do what was politically convenient. The full truth needs to be uncovered and the only way that will be accomplished is through an independent investigation. We need to ensure a tragedy of this magnitude never happens again and equally as important, we need to obtain justice for thousands of grieving families across New York State.