NY Gov. Hochul Announces New Masking Requirements for Businesses, Starting Monday

Today, Gov. Hochul announced that masks will be required in all indoor public places across New York State unless businesses or venues have a vaccine requirement. The Governor stated that the mandate is being implemented to prevent a holiday surge of Covid-19 cases.

The new measure starts on Monday, December 13, and will be re-evaluated on January 15, 2022.

Businesses that ask for proof of vaccination can accept Excelsior Pass, Excelsior Pass Plus, SMART Health Cards issued outside of New York state, or a CDC vaccination card.

Businesses that implement a mask requirement must require all customers 2 years and older to wear a mask while indoors. Providers should ensure that they are enforcing the masking requirements for vendors and visitors to their offices and/or verifying vaccination status.