Former state Assemblymember Dov Hikind spoke to News 12 Wednesday to encourage members of the Jewish community to practice social distancing as Passover gets underway.

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News 12 has received photos and videos that show people in the Jewish Orthodox community still participating in large gatherings. Hikind says it's not just about keeping yourself safe."They can be infecting their own family. What parent would want to do that?.... Anyone who keeps their synagogue open is potentially guilty of murder,” said Hikind. 

He says there's no excuse. 

With the first night of Passover on Wednesday evening, Hikind urged all Jewish people celebrating the holiday to have their Seders while still social distancing. 

He says if people really want to respect their religion and do what's right, they should stay home -- to keep themselves and others safe. 

On Monday, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said there’s been a lack of social distancing in the state. He increased the maximum fine for violations from $500 to $1,000.