In December, Mayor de Blasio enacted a COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate for private employers that requires them to obtain proof of vaccination from their employees. As per the language of the Order, Black Car drivers and all other independent contractors in the ground transportation industry in New York City are considered “covered entities,” which means that it applies to them as well.
As of December 27, 2021, all Black Car drivers must have proof of vaccination, which is defined as the ability to demonstrate that you:
- Have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19
- Have received one dose of a single-dose COVID-19 vaccine (Johnson & Johnson)
- Have received the first dose of a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine, provided that a worker providing proof of only such first dose also provides proof of receiving the second dose of that vaccine within 45 days after receiving the first dose
“Fully vaccinated” means that at least two weeks have passed after an individual received a single dose of a COVID-19 vaccine that requires only one dose, or the second dose of a two-dose series of a COVID-19 vaccine.
The order also outlines the penalties that independent contractors could face for non-compliance. The initial guidance states that the New York City Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) will be taking enforcement actions.
The Department of Health has also issued a helpful list of frequently asked questions. The FAQ states that drivers must keep their own proof of vaccination with them at all times, instead of posting an official attestation sign that is required for brick and mortar locations (places of business). The Black Car Fund is providing plastic vaccination cardholders free to Covered Drivers to protect paper vaccine cards. Visit The Black Car Fund website for more details.
Source: The Black Car Fund
