As New York City Businesses Begin Vaccine Mandates, Mayor de Blasio Applauds "Key to NYC" Early Adopters

August 11, 2021

NEW YORK—Mayor Bill de Blasio today applauded more than 30 New York City businesses – from major employers like Related, to restaurants and bars like The Queensboro – for requiring proof of vaccination for entry. The vaccine requirements, first unveiled by the City of New York as the “Key to NYC” program in early August, officially take effect during the week of August 16th for indoor dining, entertainment, and fitness facilities across the five boroughs.  

“Early adopters of the Key to NYC program are public health heroes. Their leadership and fast action sends a powerful message: New Yorkers will do everything in our power to keep each other safe and defeat COVID-19,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “Mass vaccination is the only way to stop the spread – and these businesses are giving New Yorkers more reasons than ever to protect themselves and their communities. I’m proud to stand with them.”

The businesses already adopting vaccine requirements include:

• Amor Y Amargo
• Avant Garden
• Bossa Nova Civic Club
• Cadence
• City Winery
• Dame
• Death & Co
• Dirt Candy
• Etérea
• Felix Storch
• Forsythia
• Gertie
• Ilili
• Jeju Noodle
• Ladybird
• Leland
• Leyenda
• Llama San
• Nowadays
• Proletariat
• PUBLIC Hotel
• Related
• RXR Realty
• Soda Club
• Tannat
• The Bell House
• The Durst Organization
• The Pedal House
• The Queensboro
• Union Hall
• Unter
• Yellow Rose­

The City has embarked on a listening tour to gather feedback across industries and incorporate businesses’ needs into the final guidance. The City will also launch a multi-language ad campaign for consumers and business owners to spread awareness about the program.

Acceptable proof of vaccination includes at least three options: a CDC-issued vaccination card, the New York State Excelsior Pass, and the NYC COVID Safe App, which allows those vaccinated out of New York State to show proof of their status. More details on requirements will be announced next week.

Businesses interested in being featured in future releases can contact pressoffice@cityhall.nyc.gov. 

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