Governor Hochul Updates New Yorkers on State's Progress Combating COVID-19 - AUGUST 31, 2022

 

Governor Encourages New Yorkers to Keep Using the Tools to Protect Against and Treat COVID-19: Vaccines, Boosters, Testing, and Treatment

13 Statewide Deaths Reported Yesterday

 Governor Kathy Hochul today updated New Yorkers on the state's progress combating COVID-19. 

“With school season approaching, New Yorkers should remain vigilant in keeping themselves and their loved ones healthy,” Governor Hochul said. “Take advantage of the vaccine and booster by staying up to date on doses. Test before gatherings or travel and if you test positive, talk to your doctor about potential treatment options.”

The Food and Drug Administration today issued the emergency use authorization for both the Moderna and Pfizer updated COVID-19 vaccine booster shots, designed to target Omicron subvariants. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention could approve these new boosters for distribution as early as Friday and provide New Yorkers with even more protection against COVID-19 in advance of the fall. 

Today's data is summarized briefly below:   

• Cases Per 100k – 22.27
• 7-Day Average Cases Per 100k – 20.88 
• Test Results Reported – 81,009
• Total Positive – 4,352
• Percent Positive – 4.81%**
• 7-Day Average Percent Positive – 5.88%**   
• Patient Hospitalization – 2,332 (+3)
• Patients Newly Admitted - 415
• Patients in ICU – 241 (-7) 
• Patients in ICU with Intubation - 89 (-5)
• Total Discharges – 336,923 (+363)
• New deaths reported by healthcare facilities through HERDS - 13
• Total deaths reported by healthcare facilities through HERDS – 57,641

** Due to the test reporting policy change by the federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and several other factors, the most reliable metric to measure virus impact on a community is the case per 100,000 data -- not percent positivity.   

The Health Electronic Response Data System is a NYS DOH data source that collects confirmed daily death data as reported by hospitals, nursing homes and adult care facilities only.   

Important Note: Effective Monday, April 4, the federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is no longer requiring testing facilities that use COVID-19 rapid antigen tests to report negative results. As a result, New York State's percent positive metric will be computed using only lab-reported PCR results. Positive antigen tests will still be reported to New York State and reporting of new daily cases and cases per 100k will continue to include both PCR and antigen tests. Due to this change and other factors, including changes in testing practices, the most reliable metric to measure virus impact on a community is the case per 100,000 data -- not percent positivity.   

• Total deaths reported to and compiled by the CDC – 73,676

Each New York City borough's 7-day average percentage of positive test results reported over the last three days is as follows **:   

Borough	Sunday, Aug. 28, 2022	Monday, Aug. 29, 2022	Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022
Bronx	6.96%	6.86%	6.74%
Kings	3.89%	3.85%	3.21%
New York	4.98%	4.98%	4.85%
Queens	7.01%	6.87%	6.70%
Richmond	5.83%	5.66%	5.67%

JOINT STATEMENT FROM PUBLIC ADVOCATE WILLIAMS AND COMPTROLLER LANDER ON THE THIRTEENTH DEATH IN CITY CUSTODY IN 2022

 

“Today, Michael Nieves became the 13th person to die in city custody this year – the 29th since the beginning of 2021.  

“This is not the first time that officers stood by passively during a suicide attempt. While some corrections staff are working intensely to improve health and safety on the island, others are actively undermining these efforts. 

“Regardless of declining staff absenteeism rates, city jails have no business operating as the City’s de facto mental health facilities. But because we fail to adequately fund mental health treatment year after year, more than a thousand people with serious mental illness are currently incarcerated. 

“Our visit to Rikers earlier this week made clear to us that, despite some improvements from the nightmare we witnessed on the island a year ago, clearly conditions for people on both sides of the bars are neither safe nor sustainable.  

“Those in charge of the wellbeing of detained people must be held accountable when the basic standards of human decency are not met. The City must renew and expedite its efforts to close the jail facilities at Rikers.  

“Urgent change is needed at the Department of Correction. But no reforms will repair the loss for Michael Nieves’ family, or twelve other families this year alone." 

Rep. Adriano Espaillat Releases Reports Showing the Inflation Reduction Act Will Lower Health Care Costs for Local Families

 

Today, Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) announced that families in the 13th Congressional District of New York will soon see more affordable prescription drugs for Medicare recipients and lower health insurance premiums made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act.

“For far too long, big corporations have forced many Americans to choose between paying for health care—including lifesaving medication and insurance coverage—and putting food on the table.  With the Inflation Reduction Act now the law of the land, Democrats in Congress have taken bold steps to rein in out-of-control health care costs,” said Rep. Espaillat.  “I’m proud to have voted for this transformational legislation to lower health care costs for families across my district.”

Inflation Reduction Act benefits for 13th Congressional District residents include:

Affordable Health Care

By extending critical tax credits set to expire this year, the Inflation Reduction Act will help 4,456 people in the district currently enrolled in subsidized marketplace health insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act save an average of $1478 in premiums starting next year.

 

Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, a family in the district with two adults, two children, and a household income of $75,000 could save $2,832 on their premiums next year. 

 

A household of two adults over the age of 60 with a joint income of $70,000 could save $8,868 on their premiums next year.

 

Lower Prescription Drug Costs

The Inflation Reduction Act caps Medicare beneficiaries’ annual out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs covered by Medicare Part D at $2,000 per year starting in 2025.  An estimated 6,000 Medicare Part D beneficiaries in the district had out-of-pocket costs above $2,000 in 2020. 

 

For the estimated 9,900 Medicare beneficiaries receiving insulin in the district, the new law will cap monthly copayments for insulin products at $35 per month.

 

The Inflation Reduction Act finally allows the government to negotiate lower drug prices with Big Pharma.  If the Inflation Reduction Act’s drug pricing provisions had been fully in effect in 2020:

 

*  The total cost of prescriptions filled by Medicare beneficiaries in the district could have been $80 million lower.

*   Medicare beneficiaries in the district could have saved a total of $25 million in reduced premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

The urgent need for these reforms was demonstrated by Committee on Oversight and Reform’s landmark drug pricing investigation, which revealed how the pharmaceutical industry’s uninhibited pricing practices lead to price gouging and runaway costs for Americans.

The following reports detail benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act health coverage provisions and benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act Medicare drug pricing provisions for 13th District residents.

2022 Bronx Chamber of Commerce Gala

 

The Board of Directors and leadership team of The Bronx Chamber of Commerce will host it’s 2022 Gala – Celebrating Our Members on Thursday, September 29, 2022 at 6:30pm at Marina Del Rey, 1 Marina Drive in the Throggs Neck section of the Bronx. The event, gathering over 600 attendees, highlights the rich history and achievements of the Bronx’s oldest economic development agency and celebrates the contributions of:     Joseph Kelleher, President, Simone Metro Properties and Chairman, The Bronx Chamber of Commerce   John Collazzi, Co-Founder, The Bronx Times Reporter and Founding Board Member and Member Emeritus, The Bronx Chamber of Commerce   The New York Yankees, in honor of the late George Steinbrenner, Principal Owner, NY Yankees and Founding Vice President of The Bronx Chamber of Commerce   The evening is the Bronx's #1 business networking event of the year and features a two-hour cocktail reception, dinner, and dancing. Invited speakers include New York State Governor Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams. The evening includes star-studded performances by Master of Ceremonies, Sal Valentinetti, "The Voice,” Brenda K. Starr, C-Bank, Cynthia, Steven Maglio, and DJ Serg. This annual event raises critical funds for borough economic and workforce development. 100% of all contributions support the Bronx Chamber’s business and economic development programs.  Sponsor, Purchase Tables & Tickets - Click Here Secure Your Journal Ad - Click Here  ‌  ‌  ‌

U.S. Attorney Charges Former Rockland County Coach With Transporting Minors To Engage In Illegal Sexual Activity

 

 Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today the unsealing of an Indictment charging VICTOR BYRNE, 56, with transporting two minors to engage in illegal sexual activity in 2006 and 2008.  BYRNE was arrested this morning in Orlando, Florida and presented in Orlando federal court.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said:  “Victor Byrne allegedly used his position as a diving coach to sexually exploit young athletes.  This case illustrates that the passage of years will not prevent us from holding accountable those who prey on children.”   

As alleged in the Indictment filed on August 17, 2022, in White Plains federal court and unsealed today and in statements made today at the presentment in Orlando federal court:[1]

In or about July 2006, VICTOR BYRNE, the defendant, knowingly transported a 16-year-old minor (“Victim-1”) from Cape Cod, Massachusetts to Rockland County, New York with the intent to engage in illegal sexual activity with Victim-1. 

In or about February 2008, VICTOR BYRNE knowingly transported a 16-year-old minor (“Victim-2”) from New Jersey to Rockland County, New York with the intent to engage in illegal sexual activity with Victim-2.

From in or about 2001 until at least in or about 2009, BYRNE was a diving coach in Rockland County, New York who coached a team of competitive divers.  Victim-1 and Victim-2 were divers for BYRNE.  Victim-1 and Victim-2 are adults today, and they are law enforcement officers.  Victim-1 is a police officer in New York.  Victim-2 is a Special Agent with Homeland Security Investigations.

The defendant’s criminal conduct occurred repeatedly over a period of years:  The defendant began abusing Victim-1 when she was about 14 years old.  For Victim-2, the abuse began when she was 16.

Mr. Williams stated that the investigation is ongoing.  Mr. Williams requests that any individuals who have information with respect to VICTOR BYRNE contact Homeland Security Investigations Tip Line (866) 347-2423.

BYRNE, 56, of Orlando, Florida, is charged with two counts of transporting a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity.  Count One, which charges an offense that occurred in or about July 2006, carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison. Count Two, which charges an offense that occurred in or about February 2008, carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life.  

The statutory mandatory minimum and maximum sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.

Following today’s presentment, Judge David Baker ordered that BYRNE be detained pending a hearing in Orland federal court scheduled for September 12, 2022.

Mr. Williams praised the efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Marshal Service, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, and the New York City Police Department Special Victims Unit assigned to the HSI Human Trafficking Task Force in connection with this investigation.  He added that the investigation is ongoing.

The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the description of the Indictment set forth in this release constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.

Housing Lottery Launches For 2 Mount Hope Place In Morris Heights, The Bronx

 

The affordable housing lottery has launched for 2 Mount Hope Place, an 11-story mixed-use new development at 1840 Jerome Avenue in Morris Heights, The Bronx. Designed by Gerald Caliendo Architects and developed by Sam Kafif, the structure yields 430 residences. Available on NYC Housing Connect are 43 units for residents at 40 to 130 percent of the area median income (AMI), ranging in eligible income from $21,738 to $215,150.

2 Mt. Hope Place in Morris Heights, The Bronx via NYC Housing Connect

Amenities include covered parking, a shared laundry room, recreation room, security guard and cameras, and a doorman. Units come equipped with air conditioning, intercoms, and name-brand kitchen appliances, countertops, and finishes. Tenants are responsible for electricity.

At 40 percent of the AMI, there are eight studios with a monthly rent of $548 for incomes ranging from $21,738 to $42,720 and nine one-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $545 for incomes ranging from $22,046 to $48,040.

At 60 percent of the AMI, there are 12 one-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $945 for incomes ranging from $35,760 to $72,060 and five two-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,148 for incomes ranging from $43,818 to $86,460.

At 90 percent of the AMI, there are four two-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $1,869 for incomes ranging from $68,538 to $129,690 and two three-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $2,151 for incomes ranging from $79,303 to $148,950.

At 130 percent of the AMI, there is one studio with a monthly rent of $1,700 for incomes ranging from $58,286 to $138,840; one two-bedroom with a monthly rent of $1,975 for incomes ranging from $67,715 to $187,330; and one three-bedroom with a monthly rent of $2,500 for incomes ranging from $85,715 to $215,150.

Prospective renters must meet income and household size requirements to apply for these apartments. Applications must be postmarked or submitted online no later than October 31, 2022.

Governor Hochul Announces New Concealed Carry Laws Passed in Response to Reckless Supreme Court Decision Take Effect September 1, 2022

 

Statutory Changes Address U.S. Supreme Court's Decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association Inc. v. Bruen

New Requirements for Individuals Seeking to Obtain Concealed Carry Pistol Permits Include Firearm Trainings, In-Person Interview, and Social Media Review, Among Others

Conceal Carry Restrictions Apply to Sensitive Locations Including Times Square, Bars, Libraries, Schools, Government Buildings and Hospitals

Permit Recertification or Renewal Now Required Every Three Years

State Launches New Gun Safety Website to Provide the Public, Gun Owners, and Gun Dealers with a Comprehensive, One-Stop Location for Information About the New Laws

 Governor Kathy Hochul today reminded New Yorkers that strengthened gun laws enacted following the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to strike down the state's century-old pistol permitting process take effect Thursday, September 1. The laws contain strengthened background checks and firearm safety and live-fire training for individuals seeking to obtain concealed carry permits; prohibit concealed carry permit holders from bringing their firearms into sensitive locations, including Times Square, bars, libraries, schools, government buildings and hospitals, among others; and require renewal or recertification of permits every three years. The Governor also announced a new Gun Safety Website to provide the public, gun owners, and gun dealers with a comprehensive information about all of the new requirements under state law.  

"In response to the Supreme Court's decision to strike down New York's century-old concealed carry law, we took swift and thoughtful action to keep New Yorkers safe," Governor Hochul said. "I refuse to surrender my right as Governor to protect New Yorkers from gun violence or any other form of harm. In New York State, we will continue leading the way forward and implementing common sense gun safety legislation."  

Governor Hochul also announced new permitting and minimum age requirements related to ownership of semiautomatic rifles taking effect Sunday, September 4, 2022. After that date, an individual must be at least 21 years old and have a permit prior to purchasing or taking possession of a semiautomatic rifle. These new requirements were included in a package of legislation signed by the Governor in response to the racially motivated mass shooting in Buffalo this spring. Licenses are not required for individuals who possessed semiautomatic rifles before September 4, 2022.    

For more than 100 years, New York required individuals seeking concealed carry permits to undergo background checks, which included checking whether they had any criminal convictions that could disqualify them gun ownership, and character references. In response to the Bruen decision, the state has standardized and strengthened the background checks required for concealed carry permits by requiring four character references; a list of former and current social media accounts for the last three years; disclosure of applicant's spouse or domestic partner, any other adults residing in the applicant's home, including any adult children of the applicant; and an in-person interview with their licensing officer or designee. Licensing offers may request any additional information they deem appropriate.                                                                      

The firearm training requirement applies to all concealed carry permit applicants on or after September 1, 2022 and includes individuals who live in New York City and Nassau, Suffolk and Westchester counties and are required to renew their permits. The 16-hour classroom and two-hour, live-fire firearm safety training course must meet the state's new minimum standards. These standards are designed to provide licensed firearm owners the skills and knowledge necessary to safely store and carry their firearms, and educate them about other topics, including conflict de-escalation, suicide prevention and use of deadly force, that will help keep them and others safe.     

Individuals who currently have concealed carry permits and recertify those permits with the New York State Police are not required to complete this new training. Renewal and recertification of concealed carry permits is now required every three years instead of five. By year's end, the State Police plan to institute an online recertification process for permit holders. 

The State Police and state Division of Criminal Justice Services also developed Frequently Asked Questions about the new gun laws for the public, gun owners, and gun dealers. In addition to training and expanded background check requirements, the laws:    

• Restrict individuals from carrying their concealed pistol or revolver in sensitive locations. Individuals who are not exempt from this restriction under the law can be charged with a felony for violating its sensitive locations provision. The state will launch / has launched a public awareness campaign to educate New Yorkers about these new restrictions.    
• Require monthly checks of permit holders to determine if they have criminal convictions or court orders that may disqualify them from having concealed carry permits. The state will provide this information to local licensing officials for action.    
• Mandate that firearms in unattended vehicles be unloaded and locked in a fire, impact, and tamper resistant storage depository that is hidden from view.   
• Expand safe storage requirements if children younger than 18 or anyone prohibited from possessing a gun live in a home with firearms, rifles, and shotguns     

The State Department of Environmental Conservation's website has additional information about how the new laws pertain to hunting and hunting education activities, which include skeet and trap shooting competitions. These activities continue to be legal under the new laws.   

The State Police also is working to implement other requirements that take effect in 2023: establishing state oversight for background checks for firearms (July 1); creating statewide permit and ammunition databases (August 1); and partnering with the state Division of Criminal Justice Services to establish an appeals board to review permit denials and revocations.