Full Investigation of Nursing Home Crisis Cannot Wait

ONEONTA, 02/12/21 -- State Senator Peter Oberacker (R/C – Schenevus) today commented on new reports regarding nursing homes and the potential concealment of data during the COVID-19 pandemic:

“Transparency and accountability – these are the most basic pillars of public service and without them there is no public trust.  An apparent cover-up emanating from the governor’s administration cannot be overlooked any longer.  A comprehensive independent investigation of the nursing home crisis in New York State is warranted and needs to commence immediately.  Let’s get the facts. 

“We also must rescind the governor’s executive powers.  I have voted fourteen times to return legislative checks and balances and advanced an amendment on the senate floor this week to reassert the legislature’s constitutional authority.  A special session to end the governor’s one-person rule is needed now.

“Additionally, Senators Skoufis, May, and Rivera, who took part in a secret meeting with the governor’s secretary, are potential witnesses and should resign their committee chairmanships.  The senate aging, investigations, and health committees have vital issues to examine and should not be compromised in any way.

“Most importantly, the families who have lost loved ones in our nursing homes deserve an apology and the truth.   Remember that there is a human face to what is taking place.  This is not about politics; it is about doing what is right for the people of New York State.”

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