Vaccine Passport Enforcement in NYC Began This Week

Enforcement of New York City’s “Key to NYC” Pass began this week, requiring businesses such as restaurants and gyms to discriminate against unvaccinated individuals by denying them entry into their establishments.

Mayor Bill de Blasio (D) originally announced the mandate in mid-August while touting a month-long period to educate the masses on the move, which requires gyms, restaurants, and entertainment venues to bar unvaccinated individuals from entering their establishments or face monetary consequences.

“It’s time for people to see vaccination as literally necessary to living a good and full and healthy life,” he said at the time, softly rolling out the policy in mid-August. Inspections and enforcement, however, began this week. Now, per the city’s mandate, individuals who are eligible to be vaccinated must show proof of at least one shot of vaccination to eat at an indoor restaurant, bar, or other eatery, via a copy of their vaccination card or proof on one of the city or state apps.

The city on Monday is beginning to enforce the vaccination-proof mandate, with inspectors from various agencies checking for signs and written plans, a spokeswoman for the New York City’s mayor’s office said. Restaurants have had to comply with the rule since Aug. 17, though some New York City owners said they have been waiting for the full mandate to kick in before beginning to card customers.

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New York’s rules allow customers without proof of vaccination to be inside a restaurant for a short period, roughly 10 minutes or less. Customers can use the bathroom, pay a bill or order takeout, the city says, but still must wear a mask. They can also be served outside.