New Vaccination Requirement Information

The following information has been released by the City of New York that we wanted to make you aware of:

Mayor Bill de Blasio today announced major expansions to the “Key to NYC” program, the first-in-nation vaccination mandate for workers and customers at indoor dining, fitness, entertainment and performance venues. 

Starting December 14th, the program will require children aged 5-11 to show proof of one vaccination dose for those venues. 

Starting December 27th, anyone participating in indoor dining, fitness or entertainment in NYC ages 12 and older will be required to show proof of two vaccine doses, instead of one, except for those who have received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

The mayor also announced a first-in-the-nation vaccine mandate for private-sector workers. The mandate, which will take effect on December 27th, will apply to roughly 184,000 businesses. 

Finally, the mayor announced 5-11-year-old children will be required to get vaccinated to participate in high-risk extracurricular activities. These activities include sports, band, orchestra, and dance. This requirement for the initial vaccine dose will take effect on December 14th.

The City will issue additional enforcement and reasonable accommodation guidance on December 15th, along with additional resources to support small businesses with implementation. 

Acceptable proof of vaccination includes a CDC issued vaccination card, the New York State Excelsior Pass, the Clear Health Pass, and the NYC COVID Safe App.

New York City has administered over 12.5 million vaccination doses. Nearly 6.5 million New Yorkers – including 89% of adults – have received at least one dose. More than 125,000 children aged 5-11 have already received at least one dose.