BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) – Entertainment venues are hoping for clarity from New York State over how they will enforce the state's updated guidelines.
Beginning Wednesday, the mask and social distancing mandates in New York State will end for all people who have been vaccinated in most gatherings, including concerts.
For events below the social gathering limit of 250 indoors and 500 outdoors, venues can require patrons to wear masks. Social distancing of six feet will still be required between parties of attendees unless all attendees prove that they are vaccinated.
"In theory, it would be like a VIP section," Chris Ring, owner of After Dark Entertainment and Rec Room, said about unvaccinated sections. "Once it's sold out, it's sold out."
Ring wonders how they would be able to legally require vaccines or ask for proof of vaccination, saying some people may not get the vaccines for religious reasons or for their own personal health issues.
"To put that kind of weight on our staff and police that at the front doors is stressful," he said. "Knowing what the ramifications would be (concerns us). God forbid somebody comes in and isn't vaccinated and gets somebody sick. The health of our staff and patrons is the number one thing we have to think about."
He said they may be willing to restrict capacity until more guidance comes out but also plans to see what other industries are doing.
Still, he said the end of the mask mandate is a step in the right direction.
According to the state, large-scale events like stadiums must assign unvaccinated people into sections with social distancing while vaccinated groups can sit together at full capacity with no masks. Venues must verify vaccination status to take advantage of reduced social distancing requirements.
It appears venues may require all patrons to have a vaccine and refuse entry for those without a vaccine.
"I encourage operators and venues to go higher than 50% vaccinated," Governor Cuomo said. "You can go to 100% vaccinated."
Proof of vaccinations can be provided via paper form, digital application, or New York State's Excelsior Pass.
