State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi and Assemblymember Ron Kim have introduced a new State bill that would repeal an amendment in the state budget that gives blanket corporate immunity to nursing home owners, shareholders, and trustees during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

If passed, repealing the amendment would enable families to pursue a legal pathway that could uncover evidence of poor care by nursing homes. To date, over 5,600 families have lost a loved one living in a nursing home due to COVID-19.

 

On Friday, Jun. 12 at 12.30 p.m., Kim and Biaggi will hold a virtual press event and vigil via Zoom with families of COVID patients who died from the coronavirus while in residence at nursing homes across the State, along with a coalition of New Yorkers organizing for the repeal of the law.

 

“Nearly 6,000 New Yorkers have died in nursing homes and adult care facilities from COVID-19, with over 700 lives lost in the Bronx,” said Biaggi. “While it is abundantly clear that nursing homes have not received the full support that they need to weather this pandemic, that does not mean we completely strip away their responsibility for the care of our loved ones.”

 

“By repealing the Governor’s provision to shield nursing homes and other healthcare facilities from liability, we can at least provide impacted families with the transparency and accountability they deserve,” she added.

 

Biaggi said it was an honor to hold space with her fellow New Yorkers to commemorate their loved ones, and partner with Assemblymember Ron Kim to move the bill forward. “Our elderly are not disposable, and our laws must reflect that,” she said.

 

Norwood News previously reported reported on the widespread death caused by COVID-19 in various nursing homes across the Bronx, at the height of the pandemic.

 

To join today’s event, click on the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6644487903.