NYS Coronavirus Update: Rosh Hashanah -- New DMV Online Services

On the first night of Rosh Hashanah, I wish all who celebrate a sweet new year. While celebrating this year will be different amid the pandemic, we can all reflect on the past year and look ahead to the next one. This year, there is much to consider. Anti-Semitism remains a force both in the world and here at home, and the Jewish community, like so many others, has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. But tonight is an opportunity for Jewish New Yorkers to reflect on what each of us can do to improve our communities and our world, together. To all those who celebrate, I wish you and your family a happy and safe new year. On behalf of all New Yorkers, Shanah Tovah U'Metukah!

1. The State Department of Motor Vehicles is expanding online services, making it easier for New Yorkers to do business with the DMV during this pandemic. The DMV is launching a pilot program to offer the written learner permit tests for passenger cars (Class D) and motorcycles (Class M) online. It is also piloting a process to allow customers who reside in counties served by the State DMV to register their vehicles online. In-person services are available for transactions that cannot to be done online, by mail or by drop box and reservations are required for all in-person transactions. Read more.

2. The percent positive rate dropped to 0.88 percent. Yesterday, there were 478 total hospitalizations. Of the 89,727 tests reported yesterday, 790, or 0.88 percent, were positive. Sadly, we lost 10 New Yorkers to the virus.

3. A reminder that masks are required on public transportation. If you don't have a mask, you can request one at any staffed station booth in the NYC subway. Today, hundreds of volunteers stopped by MTA stations and trains, handing out free masks to riders. Those who refuse to wear a mask even after being asked to wear one, and offered one, may be fined $50.

4. The State Liquor Authority has suspended liquor licenses for 33 additional bars and restaurants. These 33 businesses were found to be in egregious violation of Executive Orders issued to protect the public health. To date, 201 liquor licenses have been suspended during the Coronavirus pandemic. The vast majority of restaurants and bars are complying with rules; these suspensions should serve as a warning to the small number of establishments who are openly flouting the rules and putting New Yorkers' health in danger.

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