The open enrollment period for applying for coverage in the state's health marketplace has been extended to March 31, Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Thursday said. 

The governor's office said this was in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has been resurgent this winter. 

"Ensuring all New Yorkers have access to health insurance is essential, not only as we continue to fight the war against COVID, but to foster healthier, more resilient and more equitable communities as we rebuild post-pandemic," Cuomo said. 

"By extending this deadline until March, New Yorkers who need health coverage will have additional time to enroll and find the plan that works best for themselves and their families." 

For those enrolling by Feb. 15, coverage will start March 1; enrollment by March 15 starts coverage April 1; enrolling by March 31 and coverage will start by May 1. 

 "The COVID-19 pandemic is far from over and thanks to Governor Cuomo's leadership, this extension of the Open Enrollment Period will give New Yorkers the extra time they need to enroll in coverage," said Donna Frescatore, the executive director of the New York State of Health. "As vaccine distribution continues throughout the state, having access to quality, affordable health coverage is crucial to staying healthy in 2021."