New York announced the introduction of a de facto vaccine pass for some public spaces.
New York City will require proof of vaccination for people attending indoor venues such as restaurants, gyms, and shows, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Tuesday, making it the first major US city to introduce a vaccine pass.
“If you’re vaccinated… you have the key, you can open the door. But if you’re unvaccinated, unfortunately, you will not be able to participate in many things,” De Blasio told a press conference.
With coronavirus cases again surging in the United States, De Blasio said that a health pass called the “Key to NYC” would be launched on August 16, followed by a transition period before enforcement a month later.
“It’s time for people to see vaccination as literally necessary to living a good, and full and healthy life,” de Blasio said.
The US on Monday hit President Joe Biden’s goal of administering at least one jab to 70 percent of adults a month late.
Officials blamed falling vaccine rates for the missed deadline as well as the soaring caseload.
“These cases are concentrated in communities with lower vaccination rates,” Jeff Zients, White House COVID task force coordinator, told reporters.