NYC is now the first major city in the country to require vaccination proof for indoor gyms and dining.
Mayor Bill de Blasio announced NYC’s newest mandate requiring proof of vaccination (at least one dose) for workers and customers for most recreational indoor activities in a morning press conference on August 3, with the mandate beginning August 16 but enforcement and inspections will not begin until September 13.
*UPDATE: Mayor de Blasio announced on Monday, Aug. 16 that although he is signing the executive order today, it will not go into effect until tomorrow, Tuesday, August 17*
He shared the news on Twitter as well with hopes that this mandate will motivate unvaccinated New Yorkers to get the vaccine. Acceptable forms of vaccination proof include: CDC-issued vaccination card, the New York State Excelsior Pass, or the NYC COVID Safe App.
If you want to participate in society fully, you’ve got to get vaccinated. It’s time.
You’ll need proof of #COVID19 vaccination for indoor dining, indoor gyms, and indoor concerts and performances in New York City. This is a lifesaving mandate to keep our city safe. https://t.co/hIK99Z8M8A
— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) August 3, 2021
“This is crucial because we know this will encourage a lot more vaccinations,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “The goal here is to convince everyone that this is the time we’re going to stop the Delta variant. The time is now.”
You can see the full list of indoor activities and locations that will require proof of vaccination beginning Aug. 17 here:
The Key to NYC program ensures that vaccinated New Yorkers will be able to safely enjoy indoor dining, entertainment and fitness: https://t.co/URCPAOjGAE pic.twitter.com/hCBxJlU9zI
— NYC Mayor's Office (@NYCMayorsOffice) August 16, 2021
In part of the city’s new initiative “Key to NYC Pass,” the vaccination requirement adheres to indoor dining, gyms, performances, and concerts across the city beginning next month.
The policy will go into effect starting August 17 and enforcement will begin September 13.
If you’re interested in scheduling your vaccine, you can do so here.