While the origins of COVID-19 remain largely a mystery, the subject of speculation and in some cases conspiracy theory, numerous reports suggest the Chinese government's decision to withhold or cover up information following the initial outbreak in Wuhan helped contribute to the global spread.

Republican New York State Senator and congressional candidate Chris Jacobs said it is "indisputable that the actions and inactions" of the People's Republic of China contributed to the pandemic. Jacobs is calling on New York Attorney General Letitia James to take legal action against the country.

He said no jurisdiction across the globe has experienced greater loss of life or economic harm than New York. The lawmaker said the Chinese government delayed informing health organizations, refused to share critical information, and continues to hamper tracing efforts and vaccine development.

“Provisions exist within federal law allowing for legal action against another nation under these circumstances, due to the number of deaths and extreme level of economic harm caused by this pandemic and the PRC’s direct role in causing it,” Jacobs said.

He pointed out the states of Missouri and Mississippi have already initiated similar legal action and suggested James has an obligation to do the same. The Attorney General's Office did not immediately respond about whether it is considering the letter from Jacobs.

Over the weekend the top Chinese ambassador to the U.S. said the litigation against this country does not have any legal basis.