July 19, 2022 Daily Headlines

TCAT is reducing its bus services due to labor and equipment shortages. The company is proposing reducing services by 20% from August 21st through January 21st. Routes proposed to be reduced include routes 11, 13, 20, 82, 90, and 92. On Monday, August 15th, a virtual public hearing will be held for public input from 5 to 6 pm. For more information and to attend the meeting, go to tcatbus.com. 

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According to Spectrum News, New York State will receive more than 32,000 additional doses of the monkeypox vaccine this week after lawmakers and advocates pressured federal officials to increase vaccine accessibility. State Senator Brad Hoylman and Assemblywoman Jessica González-Rojas released a letter to the White House, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the CDC  to increase vaccine supply for the LGBTQ+ community and people of color. González-Rojas said the “government has a history of neglecting and failing to provide healthcare to LGBTQ communities, and we will not allow it anymore.” Currently, the state only has 28,000 doses but will receive the extra 32,000 later this week. 

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Last Friday, Governor Hochul also signed legislation banning smoking at all state-owned beaches, boardwalks, marinas, playgrounds, recreation centers, group camps, and parks. The law excludes the Adirondack and Catskills Mountain Parks, parking lots, and sidewalks. Anybody caught smoking in these areas will face a $50 fine on top of other fines from local laws. Governor Hochul was proud to sign this legislation to protect people's health and reduce litter. For more information visit governor.ny.gov.