Erie County Legislator Joe Lorigo has introduced a resolution urging the County Executive to immediately purchase additional COVID-19 tests and ramp up testing efforts throughout the County. The testing program is being proposed in place of additional mandates and restrictions from the County Executive.

The resolution references efforts in Monroe County, where free 750,000 at-home tests are being distributed to residents. Easy access to testing would allow individuals to know whether or not they are carrying the virus before attending social events or family gatherings.

Legislator Lorigo said, “More testing will go a long way in stopping community spread. It is incredibly frustrating that Erie County residents do not have wide access to free, rapid COVID-19 tests, especially as the holidays approach. This model is working in other states and counties and it’s time for our county administration to consider a new strategy as we combat COVID-19.  We have more than enough funding to establish a testing program, and I hope my colleagues will agree this is an important and timely resolution as we hold our last session of the year this afternoon.”

Erie County would be required to establish a minimum of 15 distribution centers situated throughout the county based on population. Each resident would be allowed to pick up one free testing kit in the first 30 days.

A copy of the resolution can be viewed here.