NEW YORK (WKBW) — New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced Wednesday all New Yorkers must wear a mask or cloth covering over their nose and mouth when not able to maintain proper social distancing of six feet in public.
Cuomo said he would be issuing an Executive Order and would give a three day notice to allow compliance.
The governor also said as of now, non-compliance would not lead to a penalty but he hopes local governments enforce it and New Yorkers comply because it makes sense.
#BREAKING: I am issuing an Executive Order today that all people MUST wear a mask or face covering in public in situations where social distancing is not possible.
— Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) April 15, 2020
Cuomo also announced Wednesday he doesn't believe society can truly go back to normal until there is a vaccine which he believes may be 12 to 18 months from now.
New York State will also begin statewide antibody testing. NYSDOH developed its own antibody testing last week, this week the state will begin testing 2,000 per day with a finger prick test. The state has asked the FDA for expedited approval of antibody finger prick tests that could test up to 100,000 New Yorkers a day.
The antibody testing will initially be prioritized for health care workers, first responders and essential workers.
Cuomo offered insight on phased reopening factors as well, stating the state will determine how essential the business is and then work to determine the risk of infection spread if it were to reopen.
