The governor stated that state hospitals will not have a testing option for patients-facing health care workers. Seth Wenig/AP Photo New York: Cuomo to require vaccines and weekly testing for state workersGovernor of New York Andrew Cuomo stated Wednesday that all state workers must be vaccinated and subject to weekly Covid-19 testing starting next month. He also stated that all New York state-run hospitals' staff must be vaccinated against Covid-19.The move comes after New York City, California and Department of Veterans Affairs adopted a vaccination-or-testing requirement of employees.Cuomo stated that New York is doing the same as President Joe Biden and working with its unions in order to implement such a policy before Labor Day.It is smart. He said it was fair and in everyone's best interests. We have to go even further. New York was the leader in the country's decision to take the path that makes the most sense, despite the fact that it is difficult. To control this situation, we must take drastic action.Additional context: Governor Cuomo announced that patients-facing health care workers in state hospitals will not be able to test for the governor's approval. This includes facilities managed by State University of New York. Cuomo made the announcement as a first step towards other mandates. This comes amid an increase in Covid-19 cases related to the Delta variant.He said, "In state hospitals where state is the employer the frontline workers must get vaccinated," he said virtually during remarks at a meeting for the Association for a Better New York.Other recommendations: Governor also encouraged local governments to require vaccinations or testing and to seriously think about federal mask-wearing guidelines in areas where Covid-19 is on the rise.Cuomo stated that school districts in the affected areas should consider taking stronger action to prevent students from being spread by viral disease if Covid cases keep rising.He said that schools could become superspreaders in September if we don't take the right steps. It will happen.Further, the governor reiterated that New York is reviewing the CDC guidance. It recommends that everyone wear masks indoors, especially when in crowded areas.Background: New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio opened the door to a mandatory vaccine mandate for all municipal workers in an interview on MSNBC's "Morning Joe" Tuesday. He had previously stated that city workers would be required to undergo weekly testing for Covid-19 and/or a vaccine.
