Cuomo Pushes Private Businesses to Mandate ‘Vaccine-Only’ Admission

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo urged private businesses on Aug. 2 to institute “vaccine-only” admission in order to incentivize getting vaccinated against COVID-19.

“Private businesses, bars, restaurants: go to a vaccine-only admission. … I believe it’s in your business interest to run a vaccine-only establishment,” he said, without elaborating.

The governor then suggested those businesses use New York state’s “Excelsior” app, which essentially serves as a vaccine passport system.

“We have passes. They’re on apps. They’re on phones. It’s very simple. You can operate a restaurant, just say, ‘You have to show you’re vaccinated when you walk in the door.’ It’s going to help your business, not hurt it,” Cuomo said.

Some businesses in New York—including Broadway shows, Carnegie Hall, and a higher-end restaurant group—announced that they would mandate customers to show whether they’re vaccinated against COVID-19. Danny Meyer, the founder of Shake Shack, told media outlets last week that his Union Square Hospitality Group will require indoor drinkers and diners to show they’ve been vaccinated.- READ MORE