Thread by @MarkLevineNYC

Starting today, a major new measure takes effect to slow the Delta surge in NYC:

==> Everyone aged 12+ is now required to show proof of vaccination for indoor dining, fitness, and entertainment.

Here are answers to some questions on how this works. 1/

Why is this necessary?
* Covid is surging in NYC. Since July, daily cases are up 10x & hospitalizations are up almost 5x. Restricting key indoor venues to people who are vax’d will make them far safer. And it will give an added incentive to those on the fence to get their vax. 2/

Where will this apply?
* The program, called #KeyToNYC, will apply to staff and patrons at a wide variety of indoor establishments: 3/

What forms of proof will be accepted?
* Excelsior Pass (epass.ny.gov)
* ​​NYC COVID Safe App (iphone & android)
* CDC Vaccination Card (or photo of it)
* NYC Vaccination Record
* An official immunization record from outside NYC or the U.S.
4/

What is the difference between all these forms of vax proof?
* Excelsior is the most robust standard, since it reads against the state’s immunization database. But this creates some complications for sign-up (e.g. if your name is off by one letter in the official record). 5/

Will I be asked to show ID along with my vax proof?
* Yes. Businesses are required to check ID of those who look 18 or older, and may do so for those who look 12 or older. The idea is to compare the name on the ID to the name on the vax documentation, in order to reduce fraud. 6/

What if you’ve only had your first vaccine shot?
* The #KeyToNYC program only requires you to have your first dose. (This is somewhat controversial. Personally I would have preferred that people be required to complete their full vaccine series.) 7/

I got vaccinated in another country, is that OK?
* Yes, as long as you received a vaccine approved by the @WHO (e.g. AstraZeneca)
8/

What if I am at a restaurant but just ordering take out? Or eating in outdoor seating and need to use the restroom?
* In those cases you do not need to show vaccine proof.
9/

When does this take effect?
* The vaccination screening requirement starts today, Aug. 17. But enforcement won’t begin until Sept. 13th. Fines for establishments which don’t comply begin at $1000 and will increase for repeat offences. 10/

Just to confirm--what about kids?
* Children under 12 are not required to show proof of vaccination.
11/

Is this really necessary?
* Yes. Delta is incredibly contagious. Unvaccinated people are at enormous risk in crowded indoor settings. By screening for vaccination, NYC is making the places we love far safer. So get vax'd, and enjoy your favorite restaurant/museum/theater! 12/12