Newark COVID Vaccine, Mask Mandates Will Continue, Mayor Says

NEWARK, NJ — Newark is extending some of the state’s toughest vaccine and mask mandates, officials say.

On Wednesday, Mayor Ras Baraka extended the city’s vaccine mandate for businesses until at least Feb. 16. It was set to expire Tuesday.

The city is requiring all customers 5 and up to show proof of a COVID-19 vaccine to enter many restaurants, stores and other businesses. There are some exemptions, including houses of worship, grocery stores, medical offices and “retail establishments where people tend to be in motion.”

Establishments affected by the mayor’s executive order must prominently post signage at their entrances notifying the public of the vaccination entry requirement.

• Read More: Newark Vaccine Mandate For Businesses Will Last Until February

Baraka also announced that the city is extending its indoor mask mandate until at least March 4.

Under the order, face masks are also still required at all times for all residents and visitors over the age of 2-years-old while indoors at any public facility in the City of Newark. Additionally, all patrons must be seated at a bar and wear masks unless they are actually eating or drinking.

• Read More: Masks Are Back: Newark Indoor Mandate Returns As COVID Spikes

City officials plan to continue to monitoring any changes in the COVID-19 positivity rate, and will reconsider the vaccine and mask mandates on the above dates.

“The data shows that we are heading in the right direction,” Baraka said.

“Our latest three-day test positivity rate, from Jan. 28, shows a rolling average of 5.73 percent,” Baraka continued. “We need to continue wearing our masks and getting vaccinated, as another form of protection, to remain on this path of progress.”

“We will continue to be guided by data, and do what is necessary to prevent further spread to protect the people of Newark, those who work here and visit,” the mayor added.

To view Executive Order No. MEO-22-0001, click here.

• See related article: Newark City Worker Vaccine Mandate Survives Court Challenge
• See related article: Hospital Capacity In Newark Area (See The Latest)

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