Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has agreed to testify before Congress regarding his controversial nursing home advisory from the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic. The testimony is scheduled to take place on June 11 before the select Subcommittee on the Pandemic.
The advisory in question, issued in March 2020, prohibited nursing homes from turning away patients solely based on a Covid-19 diagnosis. Lawmakers, including Rep. Brad Wenstrup, have expressed concerns about the decision, citing the risks it posed to vulnerable populations.
Cuomo's appearance before Congress comes after months of outreach from the committee, which had previously been met with delays and lack of response from Cuomo's team. The former governor has maintained that his advisory was in line with guidance from federal health agencies.
The upcoming testimony is part of ongoing scrutiny over Cuomo's handling of long-term care facilities during the pandemic. Recent investigations have revealed discrepancies in reporting Covid-19 deaths among nursing home residents, leading to questions about a potential cover-up.
In addition to Cuomo, the committee will also hear from Melissa DeRosa, Cuomo's former secretary, and Dr. Howard Zucker, former commissioner of the New York State Department of Health.
Cuomo, who served nearly three full terms as governor before resigning in August 2021 amid allegations of sexual harassment, continues to deny any wrongdoing. The upcoming testimony will provide an opportunity for Cuomo to address these issues and clarify his administration's actions during the pandemic.
