Assemblyman Jones: New York Needs More Federal Funding During COVID-19 Crisis
Assemblyman Billy Jones(D-Plattsburgh) is asking the federal government for more federal aid in the event that a new stimulus bill is passed. As it stands, New York has more recorded cases of the 2019 novel coronavirus than any other state in the nation, and in order to combat the economic impact of this virus it will require more federal aid.
“While public health remains our top priority, it is plainly clear that the economic impact of the pandemic is having devastating outcomes,” said Jones. “As the economic engine of the world, New York needs more federal dollars during this crisis. Our local governments, hospitals and businesses have been asked to step up to the plate in a way they never have, and in a time where we are so greatly relying on all of them. I will be fighting to be sure they get their resources they need to continue to do their work.”
A recent Kaiser Health News analysis revealed that, New York has only received $12k in federal funding per patient during the COVID-19 crisis.1 Hospital executives across the state agree that this is grossly underpaid and that the state will need more moving forward. Federal representatives indicated that this funding was a necessary first step and indicated more funding could be coming to help address this need.2
“New Yorkers are doing their part to flatten the curve and staying home to protect those most vulnerable, and now we are asking for more funding to go to the state government and our localities so that we can properly treat our residents and help our health care institutions, human service agencies, and businesses stay afloat,” Jones said. “I am calling on US Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, as well as our congressional delegation to include New York State and its local governments in any future stimulus package.”