‘Cruel’ New York Bill Could Deny COVID Treatment If Unvaccinated

One New York politician wants to deny COVID coverage to New Yorkers who refused to get vaccinated. Dutchess County's Executive called the bill "cruel" and wrong."

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On Tuesday, Democratic New York State Legislator Pat Burke announced he is introducing a bill that would allow insurance providers to deny coverage for COVID treatment if the person receiving the COVID treatment refused to get vaccinated.

Burke is a Buffalo native. He serves in the New York State Assembly from the 142nd district, representing South Buffalo, the City of Lackawanna, and the towns of West Seneca and Orchard Park.

"I'm introducing a bill that allows insurance providers to deny coverage for Covid related treatment to those who refuse to be vaccinated. Do your part or pay your own way. Freedom isn't free," Burke tweeted.

Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro called the bill "cruel" and wrong."

"This is cruel… I chose to be vaccinated and encourage others to do the same. Giving providers more power to deny coverage is wrong. Denying coverage to those choices you disagree with isn’t progressive, it’s wrong," Molinaro commented in Burke's tweet.

Burke then fired back at Molinaro.

"All of a sudden, Republicans care about healthcare in this country? No, this is another way to give a wink to Covid deniers. What a phony," Burke wrote.

Long Island Assemblyman Jarret Gandolfo believes the bill is "frightening" and "disturbing."

"The bill is more disturbing coming from a co-sponsor of the NY Health Act. If they ban private insurance and the State is the only healthcare plan, then what? A frightening look into NY’s future: do what we say or we’ll deny you coverage — and there’s no alternative," Gandolfo tweeted.