Lawmakers Call for Investigation into Cuomo’s COVID Nursing Home Orders

Members of the House Republican caucus are pressing top health officials to determine whether former Governor Andrew Cuomo broke federal safety guidelines by transferring COVID-infected seniors from hospitals to nursing homes during the height of the pandemic.

The controversy centers around a March 25, 2020, directive from Cuomo’s administration that urged nursing homes to accept discharged COVID patients. This order coincided with a tragic toll — more than 15,000 nursing home residents died of COVID-19 in New York.

Congressional representatives, led by Mike Lawler, requested written clarification from officials at the Department of Health and Human Services, CMS, and CDC, questioning if the order complied with federal guidance. The letter also criticizes the delay in response, noting that nearly seven months have passed since a previous inquiry on the matter was made.

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo, in a suit and red tie, looks up and to the left. — New York House Republicans are urging officials to establish whether Cuomo’s COVID nursing home policy violated federal safety guidance. Aaron Schwartz – CNP

The lawmakers called out the Trump administration’s health team for not responding to an earlier question on whether Cuomo’s order deviated from federal standards, emphasizing the importance of accountability.

While the House report concluded that Cuomo’s directive was inconsistent with federal guidelines and amounted to “medical malpractice,” federal agencies have yet to issue a formal ruling. Cuomo’s administration claims the order aligned with federal protocols, dismissing criticisms as politically motivated.

Cuomo has recently launched an independent bid for New York City mayor, following his loss in the Democratic primary. His pandemic response continues to attract scrutiny; he previously issued an apology to the ultra-Orthodox Jewish community for lockdown measures that restricted religious gatherings.

Legal investigations into Cuomo’s handling of nursing home deaths, including a criminal probe by the Justice Department, remain ongoing. However, a recent review by multiple agencies found no evidence of wrongdoing linked to the March 2020 policy.

Mehmet Oz speaking at an event, wearing a suit and red patterned tie. — The controversy over Cuomo’s nursing home orders persists as officials debate compliance with federal guidance. REUTERS

Family members who lost loved ones expressed support for the lawmakers’ effort, hoping that accountability will bring clarity and closure. One such family member, Peter Arbeeny, voiced gratitude for advocates demanding answers about his father’s death in a Brooklyn nursing home.