Republicans in the New York State Assembly released a multi-point plan for phased-in reopening of the state’s economy on a regional basis.

Parts of upstate New York have, so far, not been hit as hard by the coronavirus pandemic as more populated areas of the state like the New York City metropolitan area.

Governor Andrew Cuomo in March moved to close non-essential businesses statewide in order to halt the spread of the virus.

Thousands of jobs have been lost across the state and country, but hospitalizations in New York in recent days have started to decline, as has the daily death toll.

SEE ALSO | Could New York Re-Open Businesses On A Regional Basis?

The plan backed by Assembly Republicans released on Monday outlines worker safety measures, including social distancing, prioritizing online sales, wearing face coverings and having a “shut off valve” policy in place if the infection rate were to grow.

“It’s time to look forward and come up with a plan – within the next 10 days – on how to facilitate the recovery of New York State on a regional basis,” Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay said. “Precautionary measures need to stay in place, and there is a long way to go in the COVID-19 fight. But we have a wide variation in the prevalence of the virus from region to region. It is incumbent upon us to be prepared and to show a commitment to getting communities back up and running."

Republican lawmakers want any plan in place by April 30.

New York’s “pause” closing down non-essential businesses and schools has been extended to at least May 15.

Cuomo has opted for a broader approach at the moment, working with fellow governors in neighboring northeast states on a coordinated reopening plan.