NEW YORK (AP) — A mask mandate for shops and other indoor spaces in New York state took effect as state officials confront a surge in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. Gov. Kathy Hochul announced last week that masks would be required Monday in all indoor public places, unless the businesses or venues require proof of vaccination for entry. The requirement will last at least until Jan. 15. Enforcement is in the hands of local counties, and some Republican county executives have said they won’t redirect local health department resources to do so.
Photo: People wait in line at a COVID-19 testing site in Times Square, New York, Monday, Dec. 13, 2021. A mask mandate for shops and other indoor spaces in New York state took effect Monday as officials confront a surge in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
