President-elect Joe Biden's $1.9 trillion coronavirus stimulus proposal would set aside direct for state and local governments reeling from the financial pressure created by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The aid push is being closely watched by New York officials in both parties as the staggering costs that have piled up and tax revenue has vanished over the lat year. 

"These crises are straining the budgets of states, cities, and tribal communities that are forced to consider layoffs and service reductions," Biden said in a Thursday evening address from Delaware. "It means the people putting their lives at risk are the very people now at risk of losing their jobs."

Biden pledged the money would be used to keep "essential workers on the job and maintain essential services."

"It will ensure that vaccines are administered and schools can re-open," he said. 

Gov. Andrew Cuomo is seeking $15 billion in direct aid. Without help from a COVID stimulus measure, Cuomo has warned deep cuts in spending, tax increases and borrowing will be necessary in order to close a multi-billion budget gap worsened by the pandemic. 

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand singled out the aid, along with a proposed Health Force and emergency paid leave proposal for praise.

"While every aspect of this plan is critical, I’m proud that it contains several of my key priorities, including emergency paid leave, a Health Force proposal and direct funding for state and local governments," she said.