New York City Mandates Vaccination for Entry to Broadway Theaters and Restaurants

First Measure in the US
De Facto Introduction of Vaccine Passport

Bill de Blasio, Mayor of New York
[Photo by Reuters]

[Asia Economy New York=Correspondent Baek Jong-min] To watch Broadway musicals reopening in New York City this September or to dine inside restaurants, proof of COVID-19 vaccination will be required.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on the 3rd (local time) that starting from the 16th, proof of at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose will be required to use indoor facilities such as restaurants, gyms, and theaters.

Vaccination status will be verified by presenting a paper certificate or using the New York State app 'Excelsior Pass' that confirms vaccination.

This measure will become mandatory starting from the 13th of next month. In addition to users, employees of these facilities will also be required to be vaccinated.

However, outdoor dining will be allowed without proof of vaccination.

According to The New York Times (NYT) and others, Mayor de Blasio said at a press conference that "It is time for people to recognize that vaccines are literally essential for living a full and healthy life."

He also raised one finger, urging, "Please get vaccinated at least once."

NYT explained that this New York City measure is similar to the vaccine passes introduced in France and Italy and is the first case in the United States.

Previously, New York City only recommended indoor mask use for vaccinated individuals instead of mandating it, but this move is seen as an active step to expand vaccination.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.