Philadelphia — Philadelphia businesses must now require masks or proof of vaccination from employees and customers, while large outdoor events with no seating will also need to implement masks as the city updates its coronavirus guidance, according to NBC affiliate WCAU.
Businesses that require all staff and customers be fully vaccinated will not be subject to the masking rule, Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Cheryl Bettigole announced Wednesday. The new guidelines, which take effect at midnight, come as COVID-19 infections rise again across the country, driven largely by the more transmissible delta variant and a struggle to get people vaccinated.
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“The science is clear: these measures will protect Philadelphians and save lives,” Mayor Jim Kenney said.
Businesses that opt for requiring proof of vaccination will need to check vaccine cards – either the paper card issued by vaccine providers or a photo of said card – at the door, Bettigole said. Business owners who choose the proof of vaccine option will be subject to fines if they do not check customers’ status.
The city will put out guidance to show workers how to check someone’s vaccination card, Bettigole said.
Furthermore, she added, children under 12 cannot enter an establishment that requires proof of immunization, since vaccines are not yet authorized for that segment of the population. For families going to a restaurant, that means children cannot go inside but can still dine outside, she said.
Kenney acknowledged, however, that vaccine verification will have its limitations, especially with some people paying for fake cards.
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“I can’t stop people from being corrupt. If they want to be corrupt and do that, and if they want to carry a fake ID, probably they’re going to get by us,” he said. “But I really don’t think carrying a card is a big thing to ask.”
Restaurants and bars that do not require proof of vaccination will need to ensure everyone wears mask when not seated while actively eating or drinking.