New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo speaks during a news conference, Wednesday, May 27, 2020, at the National Press Club in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

CHENANGO – According to the Chenango County Department of Health the Southern Tier will be allowed to enter into phase two of New York's reopening.

Chenango County Health Director Marcus Flindt said county officials were informed at about 1 p.m. Friday the area would be allowed to open and enter phase two.

The state's “PAUSE,” turned into a stall Thursday after New York Governor Andrew Cuomo implied he might delay the opening depending on the final advice of experts, despite the area meeting the requirements.

The remarks caused some confusion as many local officials and business owners were already making plans to reopen.

A number of area politicians and businesses expressed concern over a delay and the lack of communication from the state. Friday morning the Chenango County Health Department said a reopening may be delayed pending clarification from state officials.

However after a 13-hour delay, by about 1 p.m., Cuomo confirmed the phase two reopening for the Southern Tier and the other regions of New York.

Cuomo shrugged off criticisms about the timing of the reopening and any confusion about his comments. He said he had not been checking messages because he was too busy reviewing data and talking with experts.

Told by a reporter many thought phase two would begin immediately Cuomo responded, “Today is today, yes, but they wanted this morning instead of 1 p.m.? I understand that, but we wanted to make sure all the data was reviewed,” he said, later adding “I never talked to anyone about timing.”

After hearing of a delay some businesses in the state said they might reopen anyways.

One of the final questions Cuomo was asked Friday afternoon was what he would do about businesses that did not follow his guidelines and reopened anyways.

“It's not up to you when you open, you have to follow the law or you will be closed. Thank you,” said Cuomo.

A number of Republican representatives are calling to restrict the governor's authority and have the legislative branch take on a more active role.

“Over three months ago the governor declared a state of emergency due to the COVID-19 outbreak,” said Assemblyman Cliff Crouch. “His executive powers were designed to be temporary, and we believe it is time that he relinquishes some of his powers to restore checks and balance to our government. It’s time the Legislature had a say in how our state moves forward out of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Chenango County is part of the Southern Tier economic region, which is made up of eight counties, Broome, Chemung, Chenango, Delaware, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga and Tompkins.

Many businesses will be allowed 50 percent customer occupancy.

According to Cuomo's orders office jobs will be require to do daily screenings. He suggested temperature tests and questionnaires for employees.

Retails stores are open but malls are closed. Stores can legally refuse service to anyone not wearing a mask, unless the customer has a medical reason.

Haircare businesses will open for the first time. The list of requirements for salons and barbershops also included, “Shops must keep a log of customers to trace if positive.” Masks for customers are required. Employees at those businesses who are interacting with customers must be tested at least every two weeks.

Phase two also includes: professional services, administrative services, information technology jobs, real estate services, property leasing and rental services.

A full recording of Cuomo remarks by PBS can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cb5LHAKpN-Q. You can visit forward.ny.gov for more information.