ALBANY, N.Y. — New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo held a conference call with reporters on Wednesday, providing an update regarding the state's progress against COVID-19.
GovernorCuomo says starting April 5, the 11 p.m. curfew for select businesses will be lifted. This includes movie theaters, casinos, bowling alleys, pool halls, gyms, and fitness centers.
At this time, the 11 p.m. curfew for "food and beverage establishments," and the midnight curfew for catered events currently remains in place. The governor said both curfews are being evaluated, adding that the state will "have an announcement on them in April."
Previously a state supreme court justice lifted the 11 p.m. state restriction for about 90 or so restaurants and bars in Western New York that filed a lawsuit against Cuomo and the state.
Indoor fitness classes were also given the green light to reopen across New York State starting March 22. The governor's office says fitness classes can reopen at 33 percent capacity, adding that classes should be scheduled to allow for proper cleaning between sessions. Health screening and contact information will also be required when participants sign in.
"I think the more that the Governor eases up on some of the restrictions in all aspects that people say 'oh okay' we're moving in the right direction," Catalyst Fitness Owner Amy Bueme said.
She said the change in occupancy will benefit the bottom line of her gym and many others across Western New York, the hours will depend on the location.
Weeks of inaction by the state she added are finally being addressed.
"You know when you're seen at 0.06% [transmission rate] and a history of being safe, not even anywhere near to be a spreader, such a safe healthy place but there was no movement," Bueme said.
Meanwhile, the five remaining Yellow Cluster Zones, all located downstate, will be lifted on Monday.
Earlier in the day, it was announced that a law firm has been retained to lead the impeachment investigation into sexual harassment allegations against the governor. During the conference call, Cuomo said he wasn't going to "take any questions or have any comments on the review at this time."
The governor added, "Let the lawyers do their job and let them conduct the review. And then we can talk about it when we have facts established or a specific situation relative to the review."
Cuomo once again repeated that he is not going to resign because of the allegations made against him.
"I'm not going to resign," Cuomo said. "Find out the facts and we'll take it from there."
You can listen to the full conference call below: