Griffo statement on updated COVID-19 death statistics

New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-I-C-Rome, released the following statement today regarding the Hochul administration’s acknowledgement of approximately 12,000 more deaths in the state from COVID-19 than was previously publicized:

“I welcome the new governor’s efforts to increase transparency when it comes to the number of COVID-19 related deaths in New York State. Based upon these recently released statistics, I believe that now, more than ever, Dr. Howard Zucker must resign as health commissioner or be removed from his position. Dr. Zucker was part of the previous administration’s efforts to undercount coronavirus deaths in New York in an effort ensure the public had a positive and favorable opinion of the former governor. His mismanagement and lack of availability for and communication with local officials and legislators is unacceptable. It is time for Dr. Zucker to step down, as I have advocated for since the beginning of the year, in order to facilitate are more open, accessible and smarter approach to confront the ongoing pandemic.”