Coronavirus State of Emergency Declared in New York State
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has declared a state of emergency in the state as the number of confirmed coronavirus cases jumped to 76.
Cuomo announced the action Saturday as he revealed another 32 cases have been identified.
Saratoga and Rockland counties each have two confirmed cases. The governor said Westchester County has the most patients with coronavirus in the state with 57 confirmed cases. 11 cases have been identified in New York City.
Cuomo's executive order said a "disaster is impending" in the state for which "local governments are unable to respond adequately."
The order is scheduled to remain in effect for six months.
The governor said the declaration will expedite the procurement of necessary supplies and speed up the leasing of additional lab space. He also said it would allow qualified people other than doctors and nurses to conduct testing.
Cuomo has directed the state Consumer Protection Division to investigate reports of price gouging for household cleaning supplies, hand sanitizer and other products as the coronavirus has spread.
New Yorkers may report concerns about price increases by calling (800) 697-1220.
Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com
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