Community Update: Vaccine Information, Common Sense Gun Safety Measures, Free SUNY Programs & more
February 18, 2021
Dear Friends:
I recognize and appreciate the frustration with the lack of available appointments for the COVID-19 vaccine for those who are eligible. I urge you to continue to be patient as the state awaits increased supply of the vaccine from the federal government. Our distribution system and local providers are working to get shots in arms as quickly as possible once supply is available to them.
A list of non-state-run vaccine providers in Westchester County is available here. Please be aware that supply is limited, a number of these sites are already booked, and they each have their own protocols for signing up to get an appointment. As of now, COVID-19 vaccine appointments at pharmacies are available to those 65 years old and over. Those with comorbidities are eligible to make an appointment at state-run distribution sites, found here. Please check back regularly as new openings may become available from day to day.
Sunday, February 14th, marked the 3rd anniversary of the shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. Last week, I was pleased to join my colleagues in adopting bills to further regulate "ghost guns." Read more about these bills in the section below.
On Tuesday, February 16th, the Westchester Senate Delegation hosted its second of two Budget Forums to hear from community stakeholders about the proposed 2021-2022 Executive Budget. Both sessions were recorded and links to watch them are available in a section below.
This week, I met with local child care providers at a meeting hosted by the Child Care Council of Westchester (CCCW) to discuss the extreme challenges they have faced during the pandemic. Our economic reopening is dependent upon a robust network of child care providers, and I am committed to ensuring necessary funds are disbursed swiftly to them. CCCW Executive Director Kathy Halas and I co-authored an OpEd in January on this topic.
As always, if there is anything my office can assist you with, please don't hesitate to email me at smayer@nysenate.gov or call (914) 934-5250.
Warm regards,
Shelley B. Mayer
State Senator
37th District