February 2022
New York State has taken a simpler and clearer approach to fighting COVID. The state requires that masks be worn in all indoor public spaces including the common areas of co-ops and condominiums for any building that does not have a vaccination requirement. This differs from Ontario measures that tend to remain silent about necessary measures in condominiums thus requiring condo boards to make decisions while being unclear of actual requirements.
The New York State ruling defines “indoor public space” as any space that is not a private residence, including “indoor entertainment venues, concert halls, indoor sports stadiums, recreational spaces, restaurants, office buildings, shopping centers, grocery stores, pharmacies, houses of worship and common areas in residential buildings.”
Condominium corporations have the choice of screening everyone who enters the building for vaccinations and not requiring that a mask be worn, or requiring that a mask be worn. For condo boards, the task of dealing with confusing regulations has been simplified. There is no option of “mixing and matching” masks and vaccinations for those entering the building. The rule applies equally to residents, staff, visitors and contractors.
If proof of vaccination is required, anyone 12 years of age or older must be fully vaccinated before entering indoors.
