NYC drops most COVID mask and vaccine requirements

New York City dropped several of its COVID-19 mandates Monday, including mask and vaccine requirements.

New York City dropped several of its COVID-19 mandates Monday, including mask and vaccine requirements.

Restaurants, bars and other indoor public areas -- including gyms and entertainment venues -- will no longer be required to ask people for proof of vaccination under the "Key to NYC" vaccine passport program.

Additionally, masks will be optional for public school students aged 5 and older.

When announcing the changes Friday, Mayor Eric Adams said it was time to drop restrictions because COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are declining and more than 75% of New York City residents are fully vaccinated.