Eric Adams says easing of COVID restrictions does not include vaccination mandate for workers

New York City mayor Eric Adams said his move to end the school mask mandate and proof of vaccination at indoor venues on March 7 does not include the vaccination mandate for workers.

On Monday, Adams said in order to work public and private employees still need to be vaccinated for COVID-19.

Adams explained that he decided to keep the vaccination mandate for workers so that New Yorkers will be encouraged to get vaccinated.

“When we talk about the employee mandates, it is imperative for the businesses to continue to create a safe environment for their employees,” Adams said.

“When I sat down with the doctors — because I’ve always stated we’re going to go based on the science — they were clear. They said, ‘Eric, we could remove the Key to NYC that allowed gyms, restaurants, and others, but we need to keep in place the mandate for those who are in professional [settings], employees or workers. And that includes city workers as well,” Adams added.

Meanwhile, Adams said he isn’t concerned about the spread of COVID from tourists traveling from out of town once restaurant requirements are lifted, predicting that testing requirements outside the city will do the trick despite lower vax rates in other parts of the country.

On Sunday, Adams said with the looming lifting of the two orders, New Yorkers will no longer have to show proof of COVID vaccination at indoor venues like bars and restaurants.

Sources said the announcement of Adams, followed a move by Gov. Kathy Hochul to end the statewide mask mandate for schools on Wednesday.

“If we see no unforeseen spikes and our numbers continue to show a low level of risk, New York City will remove the indoor mask mandate for public school children, effective next Monday, March 7,” Adams said in a statement.

“This will give business owners the time to adapt and will allow us to ensure we are making the best public health decisions for the people of New York,” Adams added.

Meanwhile, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine said mask rules will remain in effect on subways and hospitals.

“I am really concerned that people don’t misinterpret this to mean the pandemic is over,” Levine said.

“We have made enormous progress, and I think we’re heading to a wonderful spring, but we’re still seeing close to a thousand cases a day,” Levine added.