Governor Cuomo Says He Needs Legislators Back in Albany

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo says the state will try to pass a budget ahead of an April 1 deadline despite disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic

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Cuomo's push to swiftly pass a budget comes after at least two state lawmakers fell ill, and New York confirmed it has over 600 cases of COVID-19.

Those Assembly members have been absent from Albany since the beginning of the month, and all legislators and staff who came into contact with them will be tested.

According to a report by the Associated Press, the governor scoffed March 15 when questioned whether lawmakers should return this week to the New York Capitol, saying he needs them to authorize legislation.

State Senator Fred Akshar announced over the weekend he would be returning to Albany to address state business.  The Binghamton Republican, however, said his staff was seeing a change in routine.

He said his office in the State Office Building in Binghamton is closed and staff is working remotely.  Constituents can still call or email the Republican's office if they have issues to be addressed in Albany.

Akhar urged residents to practice social distancing and listen to the information being provided by local, state and federal government and health officials.

Akshar had scheduled a Town Hall meeting for Wednesday. March 18 in Vestal. That meeting is postponed.