What to know about the mayor's 'Key to NYC' proof of vaccination initiative
Security personnel asking customers for proof of vaccination as they enter City Winery in New York on June 24. Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Tuesday that later this month the city will begin requiring anyone dining indoors at a restaurant, working out at a gym or grabbing cocktails at a bar to show proof they've been inoculated. Credit: AP / Frank Franklin II
Want to spend time out on the town in New York City?
Starting Tuesday, you'd better be vaccinated, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said.
Speaking on his Monday news briefing, de Blasio touted his new "Key to NYC" initiative, which will require anyone age 12 and older to show proof they have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine in order to participate in indoor dining, bars, fitness and entertainment, including movie and stage theaters, museums and a wide range of indoor venues and businesses.
The requirement begins Tuesday with a monthlong "education" period followed by enforcement protocols beginning Sept. 13.
"We want people to enjoy the fullness of the City," de Blasio said, "but you've got to be vaccinated to do it."
The mayor said the new initiative is designed to promote the need for vaccination, especially in the wake of soaring COVID rates due to the new Delta variant, saying, "We have one mission now . . . to defeat Delta."
How does the new program work?
How does the new program work?
If you're age 12 or older you will need to show proof you've received at least one vaccination dose, beginning Aug. 17.
Who is requiring vaccination proof?
Who is requiring vaccination proof?
All restaurants and bars with indoor seating, as well as movie and stage theatres, museums and a wide range of other indoor businesses and venues.
What type of proof of vaccination is acceptable?
What type of proof of vaccination is acceptable?
Proof of vaccination includes the Excelsior Pass, NYC COVID Safe App, a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Vaccination Card, a New York City Vaccination record or an official immunization record from outside New York City or the U.S. that includes the cardholder's full name, date of birth, the approved vaccine administered, along with the date and site where it was administered.
What are the consequences of trying to circumvent the new rules?
What are the consequences of trying to circumvent the new rules?
The mayor warned there will be "real consequences," including fines, even prison time, for anyone who fails to obey the new initiative -- including for those attempting to use fake vaccination cards. Fines also apply to businesses failing to enforce the new vaccination proof requirements, de Blasio said.
Where can I find out more information on the new requirements?
Where can I find out more information on the new requirements?
For more information on the initiative and guidelines, visit the NYC 311 website and click on "Key to NYC Program."
In addition to the new requirement needed to access indoor venues across New York City, mask requirements remain in place for use of all citywide transportation -- including subways, buses, trains, taxis, car service and paratransit.
"All you have to do is show proof of vaccination," de Blasio said, adding: "Our goal is to get everyone fully vaccinated . . . Get at least the first vaccination [dose] and you'll be able to enjoy all New York City has to offer."
John Valenti, a reporter at Newsday since 1981, has been honored nationally by the Associated Press and Society of the Silurians for investigative, enterprise and breaking news reporting, as well as column writing, and is the author of “Swee'pea,” a book about former New York playground basketball star Lloyd Daniels. Valenti is featured in the Emmy Award-winning ESPN 30-for-30 film “Big Shot.”
