Aug 18, 2021 - Health

Small businesses sue NYC over indoor vaccine mandate

Oriana González

New York Mayor Bill de Blasio. Photo: David Dee Delgado/Getty Images

A group of Staten Island small businesses is suing New York City over its mandate requiring people show proof of COVID-19 vaccination to participate in indoor activities.

The big picture: Staten Island reported 237.53 coronavirus cases per 100,000 people as of the week ending on Aug. 15 — the most per capita of any New York City borough, according to government data.

What they're saying: The group argues that Mayor Bill de Blasio's executive order will "severely impact" their "business, life savings and livelihood," according to the lawsuit.

"The Executive Order has rendered it impossible for anyone who chooses not to be vaccinated, for whatever reason, to work in the designated industries, wholly depriving them of their livelihood," the suit states.

Catch up quick: The executive order, which went into effect Monday, was issued by De Blasio to increase vaccination rates in the city.

Cases in New York City have been increasing since July.

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Small businesses sue NYC over indoor vaccine mandate

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