COVID19 2021-12-10 Update: NYS Implements Mask Or Proof of Vaccination Mandate for Businesses and Venues

Announced today and beginning Monday, December 13, New York State will require that businesses and venues must implement a mask requirement or require proof of fully vaccinated status to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Tompkins County has been under a mask advisory since August and continues to ask all members of the community, regardless of vaccination status, to wear a mask while indoors and around others. Tompkins County also continues to urge all residents who are eligible to get vaccinated, receive a booster shot, seek a test, and avoid gathering with others if they are symptomatic.

Tompkins County Public Health Director Frank Kruppa stated, “Throughout the pandemic our businesses have done their best to abide by masking rules, and those efforts have helped to limit the spread. The entire state of New York is in a “High Transmission” status according to the CDC, and we know that one of the best tools to limit spread is to increase mask-wearing in public places, which this State mandate is designed to do.” Kruppa continued, “This disease is still impacting people in our community, we have seen ongoing hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19. We’re asking that you wear a mask while around others indoors and get vaccinated as soon as you are able – these are safe and effective ways to reduce the most harmful impacts of COVID-19.”

New York State has delegated enforcement of the mandate to local Health Departments. The Tompkins County Health Department is awaiting further resources and information from New York State, as capacity is limited due to ongoing pandemic response activities including contact tracing, testing, and vaccination. TCHD will communicate more details on the State mandate and enforcement efforts as they become available.