CANTON — St. Lawrence County has declared a state of emergency following the expiration of Title 42.

The move comes after state officials also declared a state of emergency on May 9.

Officials say the Public Health Order, issued by the Director of the Center for Disease Control (CDC) on Aug. 2, 2021, suspended the right to allow individuals to enter the United States from countries where a communicable disease exists.

“In specific, the Title 42 Order prohibited the migration into the United States by “covered noncitizens” traveling from Canada or Mexico who would otherwise be introduced to a port of entry or U.S. Border. St. Lawrence County has over seventy-five (75) miles of border with Canada with two border crossings in Massena and Ogdensburg that anticipate an influx of individuals who may be seeking shelter,” County Administrator Ruth Doyle wrote in a press release.

“It is with great concern, as well as an abundance of caution, that we declare this State of Emergency. Early reports show the potential stress that the ending of Title 42 will create the need, in this northern border county, upon the many forms of services that will be required to handle whatever situation may arise,” St. Lawrence County Board of Legislators Chair David Forsythe said.

“St. Lawrence County consistently rates in the top ten poorest counties in New York State and is ill equipped to meet the needs of those individuals who may looking to enter the United States at the border crossings in the County. The arrival of an increased number of individuals will further challenge the limited resources currently available to meet the needs of the existing population. There is potential that this a scenario which could create a disaster emergency which could threaten the health and safety, which could result in the loss of life and/or property,” county officials wrote.

St. Lawrence County Social Services Commissioner Joe Seeber also commented on the potential impact his department faces.

“The expiration of Title 42 has created a possible humanitarian situation with the potential of an unknown number of immigrants crossing our northern border into St. Lawrence County. The responsibility for addressing the needs of individuals and families entering through our northern border crossings falls on the counties. The Department of Social Services is closely monitoring the situation and will provide whatever assistance is appropriate and within the scope of our responsibility. We are very concerned about both the welfare of the individuals seeking asylum in the United States and the potential impact on the citizens of St. Lawrence County,” Seeber wrote.

County officials say the Declaration of a State of Emergency in St. Lawrence County will remain in place until June 10,2023 and will be reviewed prior to that date to determine if an extension should be granted.

There are no Emergency Orders at this time.