The Legal Aid Society called on Governor Andrew Cuomo to expand COVID-19 vaccine access to include all incarcerated New Yorkers in response to reporting that youth residing in congregate settings – including foster care, juvenile detention and placement, runaway and homeless youth shelters and other youth residential programs – will now have access to the vaccine, reports THE CITY.

On February 9, 2021, Legal Aid called on the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) to expand OCFS guidance to include young people residing in congregate settings overseen by the agency, consistent with guidance issued by the New York State Department of Health.

Yesterday, OCFS issued new guidance acknowledging that youth age 16 and older in congregate facilities it licenses are eligible for the vaccine. OCFS also instructed congregate care programs to assist eligible residents in securing the vaccine.

“COVID-19 still rages at these facilities throughout the state, and any further delay will only result in more infections and more loss of life,” reads a statement from The Legal Aid Society. “We urge Governor Cuomo to grant this essential relief now.”