NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. (WBEN) - Governor Andrew Cuomo was criticized over his visit to Georgia because he will not quarantine upon his return to New York.
Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul defended the governor on Tuesday, saying he does not have to quarantine because he is an essential employee and because he was in the state for only 24 hours.
There are 31 states on New York State's quarantine list.
New York State does have a list of exemptions for essential workers, though it's worded as if that essential worker is not from New York. The New York State Department of Health also said on its website that a person "passing through" a designated state for a limited duration of less than 24 hours does not have to adhere to the travel advisory.
The criticism against the governor comes at the same time that dignitaries at all levels of government are actively hoping that the Toronto Blue Jays will play their home games in Buffalo. MLB games in New York City will also begin later this week.
"I suspect they stay in an area for more than 24 hours but I'm not sure (baseball players) qualify as essential workers as much as we love the sport," Hochul said.
There is specific travel guidance for professional athletes. The guidance says they must always quarantine in single rooms at their lodging in New York, except for activities related to team practice, meetings, and competition.
Read more of the state's guidelines here