New York City will be the first to require proof of vaccination for both workers and customers across a variety of activities as part of its Key to NYC Pass program, announced Mayor Bill de Blasio, Tuesday. The policy, which covers indoor dining, indoor fitness facilities, and indoor entertainment facilities, will be phased. The final details will be implemented the week of August 16, then inspections and enforcement will begin September 13.
In order to access these venues, individuals need to confirm that they are vaccinated by either showing their vaccination card, the NYC COVID SAFE app, or the Excelsior app from the state.
“Just show it and you’re in,” said de Blasio.
Key to NYC Pass is part of the Mayor’s larger efforts to increase vaccinations.
“Not everyone is going to agree with this, I understand that,” said. “But for so many people, this is going to be a lifesaving act, that we are putting a mandate in place that is going to guarantee a much higher level of vaccination in this city. And that is the key to protecting people, and the key to our recovery.”
“And we also know that people are going to get a really clear message – if you want to participate in our society fully, you’ve got to get vaccinated,” he continued. “You’ve got to get vaccinated. It's time. All the answers, all the information's out there. You've seen over 160 million Americans get vaccinated safely. You've seen it make the difference. The only reason we're having the recovery is vaccination. So, it's time.”
Related: Consumers Mixed on Which Occasions Should Require Vaccination; Consumers Resume On-the-Go Dining Habits: Report.