Restaurants across Long Island will look a little different Monday when Gov. Kathy Hochul’s temporary mask or vaccine mandate goes into effect.
Hochul says public places that opt for the mask requirement, rather than proof of full vaccination, must ensure that all patrons age 2 and older wear a mask at all times while indoors.
Dr. Eugene Vortsman, with LIJ Northwell, says he believes the governor’s mandate is an appropriate next step with the holiday season upon us.
The mask or vax mandate will be in effect until Jan. 15, at which point the state will reevaluate the status of cases, hospitalizations and vaccinations.Local health departments will enforce the state’s requirements.
A violation of any provision of the measure is subject to civil and criminal penalties including a maximum fine of $1,000 for each violation.