NEW YORK, Dec. 13 (US): A mask mandate for stores and other indoor locations in New York state went into effect Monday as officials face an increase in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, according to the Associated Press.
Governor Cathy Hochhol announced Friday that masks will be required in all indoor public places unless businesses or venues implement a vaccine requirement. The rule will last at least until January 15th.
Under the mandate, companies can either require proof of vaccination for entry or ensure that all beneficiaries of two years and above wear a mask. Violators may face civil and criminal penalties, including a maximum fine of $1,000.
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said the city will implement the mandate “in a collaborative manner” with an emphasis on educating and working with business owners.
Although previous polls have shown that many New Yorkers support mask mandates, some Republican elected officials have said that educating the public would be a better use of resources than enforcing mask mandates.
New York enacted a mask mandate at the start of the pandemic in April 2020 which expired in June 2021 for vaccinated individuals.
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