Berkeley Mayor Statement on Health Order Requiring Proof of Vaccination to Enter Many Indoor Businesses
September 2, 2021
BERKELEY - Today, Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguín released the following statement following a new health order issued by Berkeley Health Officer Dr. Lisa Hernandez in response to the rapidly evolving threat posed by COVID-19, and the highly transmissible Delta variant. In addition to applicable local and state indoor mask requirements, beginning Friday, September 3, 2021, proof of vaccination will be required in most indoor settings.
“The virus continues to prey on the unvaccinated,” said Mayor Jesse Arreguín. “Those refusing to get the vaccine are jeopardizing public health, and they are prolonging this deadly pandemic. Requiring face coverings and proof of vaccination will preclude those who pose a heightened and unnecessary risk to others from fraternizing in high-risk settings. This is fundamental to public health, but it's also the responsible thing to do for our business community and their workers. The vast majority of those who are eligible have already gotten the vaccine and I am so proud to serve a community that continues to demonstrate resilience, empathy, and compassion. But for everyone else, we're past the point of politely asking you to get vaccinated."
71% of Berkeley residents 12 and older are fully vaccinated, a number that does not fully account for the UC Berkeley campus population, where vaccination is mandatory. The COVID-19 vaccine has been proven effective in reducing the likelihood of getting or spreading the virus, and wearing face coverings serve as additional protection. The City's proof of full vaccination requirement applies to patrons of indoor public settings such as restaurants, bars, clubs and gyms. The mandate goes into effect on Friday, September 3rd at 12:01 am. This requirement includes indoor event spaces where food or drink is served. While this order will become effective September 3rd, it will not be enforced by the city until 8 am on Friday, September 10th, to allow a one-week grace period for businesses to come into compliance. Also by October 15th, these businesses must also ascertain employee vaccination status.
The requirements are subject to limited exemptions under state and federal law. The new requirements for proof of vaccination do not apply to individuals ineligible for vaccinations, such as children under the age of 12. Children two years and older, however, must continue to comply with applicable indoor mask requirements that are required under local and state health rules.