NY, CT, NJ Close Gyms, Movie Theaters, Casinos; Bars/Restaurants Takeout Only. Regional Cooperation Stressed

From Governor Cuomo via Twitter from his press conference today, where his messaging was consistent with that of past press conference. Governor Cuomo has been asking the federal government to have a countrywide mandate on restrictions. His fear is that shutting down New York state bars, for example, results in, “Everybody drives to New Jersey to drink,” for example. Or to the movies, or to go out to dinner. Or go to the movies.

Cuomo’s fear is that when he shuts something down in New York, people will go elsewhere to get it. He said this yesterday (Sunday) and again today (Monday). If something is shut down in New York City, people might come to Beacon to do it instead.

In backing up his strategy, he said:

“I don’t remember this happening, period.”

“This pre-empts what any mayor or any county executive anywhere said. You can’t close bars in Manhattan but leave them open in Nassau. Because now everybody drives to Nassau to drink.”

“In an emergency situation, there is a protocol that makes sense. Local governments can make rules, the state can override those rules, and the federal government can override those rules.”

“They are counter to common sense, and they are counter to public safety and public health.”

With regards to public schools, Cuomo indicated he would have a statewide policy on school closures as well.

Authorities are considering a recommendation to stop elective surgeries for now.

From Governor Cuomo’s Twitter:

“NY, CT and NJ are taking joint regional action to reduce the spread of #COVID19:”

Effective 8pm TONIGHT (Monday):
-Crowd capacity reduced to 50.
-Restaurants/bars will be takeout/delivery ONLY.
-Gyms closed.
-Movie theaters closed.
-Casinos closed.