The city of Boston will begin requiring individuals to show proof of receiving a COVID-19 injection starting Jan. 15. The proof of injection will be required in order to enter certain indoor spaces in the city. Employees of these indoor spaces will also be forced to receive a COVID injection.
According to the mayor’s order, 75.7 percent of the population over 12 years old is fully vaccinated. The mayor’s order also states vaccinated individuals are less likely to develop serious symptoms or spread COVID to others near them.
Some individuals are exempt from the order:
*Individuals entering for a “quick and limited purpose.”
*A performing artist not regularly employed by the covered entity while in the covered premises for purposes of performing.
*A professional athlete/sports team who enters a covered premises as part of their regular employment for purposes of competing.
*An individual accompanying a performing artist or professional athlete/sports team into a covered premises as part of their regular employment so long as the performing artist or professional athlete/sports team are performing or competing in the covered premises.
Covered entities are required to post a sign at the entrance alerting patrons to the injection requirement and informing them employees and patrons are required to be injected.
Public and non-public schools and programs will be exempt, as will child care programs, senior centers, community centers or otherwise indicated locations.
Indoor portions of foodservice establishments offering food and drink — including restaurants, bars and all indoor dining areas of food service establishments are included in the order.
Indoor entertainment, recreational and event venues are included as well. This means it will apply to movie theaters, music or concert venues, commercial event and party venues, museums and galleries, professional sports arenas and indoor stadiums, convention centers and exhibition halls, performing arts theaters, bowling alleys and other rec centers.
Indoor gyms and fitness settings are included.
“Each instance that a covered entity fails to check an individual’s vaccination status shall constitute a separate violation of this order,” it states.
By Jan. 15, all individuals 12 and older will be required to present proof of at least one injection. By Feb. 15, all individuals 12 and over will be required to present proof of either one dose of a one-dose injection or two doses in a two-dose series. By March 1, all individuals 5-11 will be required to present proof of at least one dose of vaccination. By May 1, all individuals 5 and over will be required to present proof of receiving one dose of a one-dose vaccine or two doses in a two-dose series.
The order makes possible written warnings for violations, but it also states fines of $300 for each violation are possible as well as orders of the Boston Public Health Commission to cease and desist.
