On March 7, 2022, New York City lifted several pandemic related restrictions.  Indoor venues, including restaurants, fitness facilities, and entertainment spaces will no longer be required to check for proof of vaccination before customers enter or require people to wear masks. Businesses previously covered by Key to NYC rules will still have the flexibility to require proof of vaccination or masking indoors if they choose.

Also starting on March 7, 2022, New York City eliminated its school mask requirements.  Since children under the age of 5 are not yet eligible for vaccination, the city still requires them and all staff members that work with them to wear masks indoors.  In all schools, all students, families, staff and visitors must complete a health screening form before entering a school building each day. Students who compete in certain sports, such as football, and take part in certain extracurricular activities, including musical theater, must be vaccinated against COVID-19.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced that all other COVID-19 mandates will remain in effect. Importantly, under the rules, employees will still be required to be vaccinated unless they have received a reasonable accommodation from their employer.

There are also still many places in the city where masks are required. The federal government requires masks to be worn on planes, trains and other forms of public transportation.  New York City also requires masks in all public transportation settings, including taxis and car services.

The city still recommends that everyone wear masks in indoor public spaces and severely populated outdoor spaces, but businesses are allowed to set their own mask policies.  In addition, the city’s Health Department said individual businesses can still require proof of vaccination to enter.

We will continue to follow developments and will continue to keep you updated.  Should you have any questions, please contact ALG.