Restaurant owners say they’re relieved the city's new vaccine mandate means they can continue with indoor dining. But there are exemptions and unanswered questions.
The mayor's new mandate requires customers to show proof of vaccination before dining inside. But children under 12, who are too young to get the shot can sit with their parents and wear masks. One restaurant owner wondered what to do with unvaccinated diners who sit outside, because all customers must be allowed to use bathrooms. The Department of Health said accommodations are a standard part of any public health approach. The policy takes effect August 16th and enforcement begins on September 13th. The agency said this gives it time to collect feedback, finalize the policy and educate businesses before beginning inspections.
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