New York City announces vaccine mandate for indoor activities

Customers and workers will soon have to show proof of a COVID jab or they will be denied entry to restaurants, gyms and other venues.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Tuesday what is believed to be the first government-issued mandate in the US requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination for people taking part in indoor activities in the city. Workers and customers of indoor restaurants, gyms and entertainment and performance venues will require patrons to show a vaccination card or a city or state vaccination “pass” or they will be denied entry. “This is crucial because we know this will encourage a lot more vaccinations,” de Blasio said during a news briefing Tuesday. “We know this is what’s going to turn the tide.”