New York State Governor Kathy Hochul announced that effective Dec. 13, 2021 masks will be required in all indoor public places unless the business or venue has implemented a vaccine requirement. Businesses that elect to implement a vaccine mandate must see proof of full vaccination (meaning 14 days after the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine or 14 days after the second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine). Acceptable proof of vaccination includes New York’s Excelsior Pass, SMART Health Cards, or a CDC Vaccination Card.
Businesses that do not comply with this requirement will be subject to a maximum fine of $1,000 for each violation.
The New York State Dept. of Health’s order defines all indoor public places as any indoor space that is not a private residence. The mask or vaccine requirement will be in effect until Jan. 15th, 2022.
For more information, visit the state’s frequently asked questions website.
