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NYC to require vaccine to enter restaurants

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New York City has become the first major city in the U.S. to announce it will require proof of receiving a COVID-19 vaccination to enter certain indoor businesses, including restaurants.

According to an Aug. 3, 2021, briefing, the city will start requiring those eligible to be vaccinated to provide proof of receiving at least one vaccine dose.

The program, called “Key to NYC Pass” is slated to start rolling out Aug. 16, 2021 with enforcement slated to begin Sept. 13, 2021.

It will work in conjunction with the state’s existing Excelsior Pass, the city’s vaccine passport app or by simply showing a valid vaccine card.

It’s not immediately clear who will enforce the rule. During the 2020 shutdowns and dining restrictions, local or state health departments were often tasked with enforcing and citing violations to indoor dining policies but often did not due to staffing limitations or other reasons.

In many areas, law enforcement declined to get involved in policing these policies.

COVID-19 vaccines and boosters are highly recommended by multiple public health officials and experts. COVID-19 vaccines and boosters have undergone extensive testing and monitoring to ensure their safety. Scientific research has shown the vaccines and boosters to be very safe and highly effective any may help stop you from contracting COVID-19 or resulting in less severe symptoms and chance of hospitalization or death. For more information about COVID-19 and coronavirus, visit the CDC website. You can locate a free vaccination site or clinic near you at Vaccines.gov. As with any medical decision, you should always discuss your options with your doctor.