“The pandemic has created so much uncertainty for families and their loved ones who reside in nursing homes and senior living facilities. My heart aches for the families who have experienced loss and confusion during such an unprecedented time,” said Walsh. “I proudly joined Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R,C,I,Ref-Pulaski), Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt (R-Tonawanda), several of my colleagues and families who lost loved ones to call for state hearings, a federal investigation and, of course, a restoration of legislative oversight following the attorney general’s report that demonstrated just how desperately that is needed.

“I have co-sponsored legislation (A.3162) to establish an independent, bipartisan state commission with subpoena power since it was first introduced in July of 2020 and launched a statewide petition to urge our Majority colleagues in pushing this important proposal forward. Today, I echo those calls for action and the need for a thorough review, particularly now that we know just how devastating of a toll unilateral decision making has had on these families.

“These New Yorkers deserve compassion, accountability, action to correct the conditions in these facilities moving forward and, above all, an apology from the governor and the New York State Health Commissioner. I’m calling on my counterparts in the Majority to act in the best interest of New Yorkers and rise above politics by restoring our legislative authority once and for all.