NYC Offers Indoor COVID Vaccine Mandate Help To Businesses

NEW YORK CITY — Expect to see a poster hanging up in more windows of New York City's businesses.

"New York City requires you to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter this business," the poster states.

The city-made poster is one of several outreach efforts officials will conduct ahead of Sept. 13, the day enforcement begins on a mandate requiring proof of vaccination against COVID-19 for indoor dining, performances and working out.

Mayor Bill de Blasio outlined a spate of efforts Tuesday designed to help businesses prepare for and adjust to the "Key To NYC" mandate. He pointed out it contains vaccination information.

"Here is a way to access the information, the nearest vaccination site — you can literally go to that vaccination site, get your first shot, get your card, come right back," he said. "Go to that restaurant, go to that movie theater, go to that concert. That's how flexible this rule is."

City officials have been reaching out to business owners after the rule took effect and before enforcement begins Sept. 13.

The city's Small Business Services department issued industry-specific guidance Tuesday, said Commissioner Jonnel Doris.

“If you are a restaurant, you’ll be able to look to see exactly what you need to do,” he said. “If you’re a movie theater, find out how to keep the line moving. Any business for that matter: we have specific guidance for you.”

Andrew Rigie, who heads the NYC Hospitality Alliance, appeared alongside de Blasio and Doris during the briefing. He acknowledged many restaurant owners and customers have concerns, but he praised city officials for their outreach.

The vaccination mandate ultimately will help avert another shutdown of restaurants, he said.

“At the end of the day, we cannot go backwards,” he said.

More information on the Key To NYC and industry-specific guidance can be found here.