On Tuesday, June 15th, Governor Cuomo announced that all COVID-19 restrictions and industry guidance are lifted as 70% of adult New Yorkers have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
The New York State restrictions and New York Forward guidance, such as social gathering limits, capacity restrictions, social distancing, health screenings, cleaning protocols, contact tracing, etc. are now OPTIONAL for nearly all businesses and commercial settings, including retail, offices, food services, gyms and fitness centers, hair salons, barber shops, personal care services, etc. New York’s COVID-19 restrictions remain in place for large-scale indoor event venues, now defined as indoor venues that hold more than 5,000 attendees. COVID-19 restrictions are still in place for pre-K to grade 12 schools, public transit, congregate care facilities, and health care settings.
Unvaccinated individuals are still required to wear masks and socially distance in accordance with the state’s implementation of federal CDC guidance.
Businesses are free to choose to lift all or some COVID-19 restrictions and may continue to adhere to the state’s guidance or implement their own health and safety protocols. Businesses may also continue to require mask wearing and social distancing for all employees and patrons, regardless of vaccination status. Businesses should note that mask requirements must adhere to applicable federal and state laws and regulations, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
