“At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, extensive restrictions were put in place for New York residents and businesses to keep our communities safe in the face of a novel public health threat. More than a year later, we are well into the process of vaccinating people and reopening our state, which means it is past time to lift some of these unnecessary restrictions, reduce the governor’s extraordinary powers and restore checks and balances.

“I voted to repeal some of these executive orders, including the nonsensical ‘food-with-alcohol’ rule that has only added to the burdens that our bar and restaurant owners face during this difficult time. I also voted to remove a loophole that excluded certain volunteers in government roles from certain ethics requirements and suspend outdated compliance rules for vaccine providers. I’ll continue collaborating with my Assembly colleagues to move our state forward and provide critical relief for our families and businesses.”