Indoor mask mandate returns for businesses in New York

Anyone wanting to go inside any business across New York that does not require you to be vaccinated will need to make sure they have a mask on.

News 12 Staff

Dec 13, 2021, 11:50 AM

Updated 1,029 days ago

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A new mask mandate is now in effect, and it impacts anyone who plans to shop indoors.
Anyone wanting to go inside any business across New York that does not require you to be vaccinated will need to make sure they have a mask on.
Gov. Kathy Hochul says she brought the indoor mask requirement back because there are concerns there will be a surge in cases through the winter months. However, she says enforcement of the mandate will be left up to the counties.
Mayor de Bill de Blasio says the city plans to operate in a "cooperative way” with the NYC Department of Health focusing on educating business owners rather than fining violators.
On Monday, de Blasio announced 90% of New York adults have received at least one dose of the vaccine. The mayor says he'll continue to push everyone to get their second dose and booster shots and continue to help reach the youngest eligible New Yorkers.
Lockwood, a local chain of lifestyle stores, has had customers and staff masking since June 2020. Owner Mackenzi Farquer says they have received pushback over the rule every single day.
"I think you can only do you best. I explain to my team, ‘Don’t put yourself in an unsafe situation,” she says. “Explain to them, offer them a free mask. And if they really push, let them know our website is always open – we can ship it to you or hand it to your curbside.”
The statewide mask mandate will remain in effect until at least Jan. 15., which is when the governor will review it again.