Uninsured people living in New York have been given an additional month to sign up for insurance through the state's healthcare marketplace. 

The extension through Sept. 15 was approved due to the coronavirus pandemic, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said in a statement on Tuesday. 

"While we've crushed the curve of the virus, we are still in challenging times for hard-working families throughout the state who need access to quality, affordable health care," Cuomo said.

"The state has maintained low infection rates and is moving in the right direction, but we know we're not out of the woods yet. By offering this special enrollment period, we're making sure New Yorkers who need affordable and at times live-saving health care coverage can get it."

The extension is happening so people do not avoid testing or medical care because of a lack of insurance. People who have lost their insurance due to unemployment must within 60 days of losing coverage; people who have lost income may be eligible for Medicaid, the Essential Plan, Child Health Plus or a subsidized health care plan. 

Coverage can start either September 1 or October 1. 

"NY State of Health continues to serve as a safety net for New Yorkers in need of health insurance coverage during this unprecedented public health emergency," said Donna Frescatore, the executive director of the state's health insurance exchange. "Individuals can find and enroll in affordable, comprehensive health insurance coverage, and our Customer Service Center and enrollment assistors are available to help with this process."