UPDATE: New York further easing travel restrictions, no more quarantine
Editor's Note
There's breaking news out of the Empire State today as we get word that New York is easing entry and quarantine requirements for all domestic travelers as of today, April 1.
Essentially, quarantine will no longer be required for any travelers coming from any U.S. state or territory. The state is still recommending a quarantine after any travel, but it is no longer being required. Travelers will still need to fill out the Traveler Health Form and follow other state rules, including:
- Monitor symptoms daily from day of arrival in New York through day 14;
- Continue strict adherence to all recommended non-pharmaceutical interventions, including hand hygiene and the use of face coverings, through Day 14 (even if fully vaccinated); and
- Must immediately self-isolate if any symptoms develop and contact the local public health authority or their healthcare provider to report this change in clinical status and determine if they should seek testing.
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said in a statement:
".. quarantine for domestic travelers is no longer required, but it is still being advised as an added precaution. This is great news, but it is not an all-clear for New Yorkers to let their guard down. To beat this virus once and for all we all must continue doing what we know works to stop the spread, including wearing masks, washing our hands and practicing social distancing."
Back in early March, Cuomo relaxed the one-time required quarantine was being eased and that "travelers are no longer required to quarantine or test out within 90 days of full vaccination." It now appears the same is true even if you are not vaccinated.
Related: My New York quarantine
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio is not happy about the governor's decision saying last month, "I don't know if that's the state's idea of an April Fool's joke, but it is absolutely the wrong thing to do. It's reckless; it doesn't help us with our recovery."
International arrivals will also still need to quarantine for 10 days and get tested regularly even if they've gotten vaccinated. Those folks will also still need to show a negative test result taken within 72 hours of arrival.
Related: 3 largest NYC airports now offer testing
The New York Times reported last month, the governor eased restrictions on gatherings and is allowing some venues to reopen with larger crowds. Crowds of up to 100 people are being allowed to gather indoors and 200 people outdoors. Just today, TPG reported the Park Hyatt New York reopened and other luxury hotels are also reopening. The relaxed rules should help spur a revival in City tourism.
Related: New rules for entry into New York
All this comes as New York continues to test a new COVID-19 vaccination passport that could eventually give you access to concerts and other live events.
New York State Budget Director Robert Mujica said, ".. we have been working with IBM on that app, when you get tested, with your consent, the results of that test will be reported automatically to the app. And then you can show proof of a negative test upon entrance to any of these events that require testing."