Governor Andrew Cuomo has directed flags at all state buildings to be at half-staff in solidarity with those impacted by the mass shooting in Florida.
On Sunday, during the Puerto Rican Day parade in New York City, Cuomo spoke to reporters and said that Congress needs to pass sensible gun safety legislation.
"Once again this is a terrible reminder of the rampant gun violence we have in this nation, I'm glad that this state has taken action because the gun violence is just getting worse and worse and worse."
Cuomo says that the New York State Police and National Guard have increased surveillance of critical infrastructure including transportation hubs, part of the normal protocol when there has been a possible terrorist attack.
Other steps include having the NYS Division of Homeland Security increase monitoring of various large public gatherings.
Cuomo also said he would have the World Trade Center lit up in the colors of the pride flag:
“From Stonewall to marriage equality to protecting transgender individuals to the first-in-the nation executive action to ban conversion therapy, New York has led the way in the fight for LGBT rights. In this state, we believe that no matter your race, creed, color, gender identity or expression you have the right live your life free from persecution and prejudice.
"This senseless act of terror reminds us that there are those who seek to undermine these very values and the progress we have achieved. We will not let this happen. An attack on one is an attack on all. New York joins the rest of the nation in rejecting this hate, fear and extremism and stands shoulder to shoulder with the LGBT community.
“Tonight, I am directing One World Trade Center to be lit the colors of the pride flag in a tribute to LGBT Americans and the lives that were lost. On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend my deepest thoughts and prayers to those affected by this horrendous tragedy.”
