Regarding Gov. Hochul’s proposed mask ban, which she seeks to bundle into New York’s upcoming state budget (due to be finalized by March 31), I oppose the ban. As a disabled Jewish woman who engages in activism, I find the possible codification of this measure to be a horrific violation of human and civil rights, in multiple ways.

 

Firstly, all humans have a right to protect their health, and one of the essential tools to do so is masking (preferably N95). COVID-19 is still prevalent, as are the measles, H5N1, and other viruses. Even if they weren’t, physical vulnerabilities differ from person to person.
There are New Yorkers who are asthmatic, immuno-suppressed, aged, have vulnerable family members at home, and/or simply wish to take precautions from viral infections and/or air pollution.

 

They must be free to do so without the burden of having to find a doctor to document their preference, or to “convince” an inherently unqualified police officer that their health concerns are “justified.”

 

Secondly, over the last year, I, as a Jewish woman, have found myself, and friends, repeatedly threatened at protests by Israeli supporters who wished death and sexual assault on us. This is commonplace and a danger we have a RIGHT to protect ourselves against, with face coverings.

 

The proposed measure would empower such verbally violent individuals to “dox,” harass, and potentially act upon threats. Though ironically (and inaccurately) framed as a “safety” measure, it would put thousands in unnecessary danger. As such, it is unacceptable.

 

I passionately urge all voters to call Hochul and their respective state representatives to oppose the mask ban. Such is a must to defend healthcare, safety, and civil rights. For more information on the bill and other details, I recommend readers visit “Jews for Mask Rights” at https://www.jewsformaskrights.com.

 

J.Goodman is a resident of Norwood, The Bronx

 

Editor’s Note: The Times Union reported April 1 that as the finalization of NYS Budget for Financial Year 2026 was missed on March 31, the State Legislature agreed to pass an extender that will keep state workers paid and the government funded through Thursday, April 3. However, the outlet reported that lawmakers expect to miss that deadline too.

 

NYC Mayor Eric Adams has previously spoken about how police investigations into various store robberies, for example, are more difficult to solve when perpetrators wear masks as the resulting security footage doesn’t help in identifying those committing the robberies. The mayor lifted mask requirements for 2 to 4-year-olds in New York City in June 2022.