Rhode Island's New Mask, Vaccine Rules: What To Know
PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Island's new rules surrounding indoor mask-wearing and proof of vaccination requirements go into effect Monday. The new rules will be in effect for at least the next 30 days, in an effort to slow the surge in COVID-19 cases in the state.
Gov. Dan McKee announced the new rules last week. Masks must be worn or proof of vaccination must be shown under the following circumstances. "Venues" includes all public areas, including gyms, restaurants, houses of worship, theaters, stores and more.
Large venues (250+ capacity): Masks must be worn by everyone, regardless of vaccine status
Smaller venues (up to 250 capacity): Must either require mask-wearing or proof of vaccination
Offices/places of work: Must either require mask-wearing or proof of vaccination
On Thursday, the Rhode Island Commerce Department released a list of frequently asked questions for businesses. Under the new rules, all businesses — including offices — must post signs at entrances explaining the need to wear a mask or, if applicable, show proof of vaccination.
To show proof of vaccination, Rhode Islanders can either carry their physical vaccine card, or show a photo on their phone.
Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott, the director of the Rhode Island Department of Health, reminded the public that the best way to protect against COVID-19, including the new omicron variant, is to get fully vaccinated, including a third "booster" dose. Individuals become eligible for a booster dose six months after completing the first round of a two-dose vaccine, or two months after receiving the single-dose Johnson and Johnson shot.
"The booster doses are necessary now for everyone," Alexander-Scott said last week. "Getting your booster dose now is the new norm."
This article originally appeared on the Narragansett-South Kingstown Patch
