Governor Hochul Extends Indoor Mask or Vaccine Mandate
On Dec. 31st, 2021, Governor Hochul announced the state’s winter surge plan to combat the Omicron COVID variant. As part of the plan, New York State will extend the indoor mask or vaccine mandate through the end of January. The mandate was originally set to expire on Jan. 15th.
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. The New York State Dept. of Health’s order defines all indoor public places as any indoor space that is not a private residence.
Businesses that do not comply with this requirement will be subject to a maximum fine of $1,000 for each violation.
For more information, visit the state’s frequently asked questions website.
