Several bars and restaurants are beginning to mandate proof of vaccination to allow indoor dining.
As the delta variant spreads quickly across the U.S., COVID-19 cases are rising in every state, particularly in hotspots like Florida and Missouri. In response, cities and states are reconsidering mask mandates and other precautions, while employers assess their ability to enforce vaccination requirements (which is indeed permissible). San Francisco continues to be a leader in implementing preventative measures, now requiring patrons at numerous bars to be vaccinated or present a negative COVID-19 test result to drink indoors.
Initiative by the San Francisco Bar Owner Alliance
This initiative is led by the San Francisco Bar Owner Alliance, representing over 500 local bar owners. Starting Thursday, this requirement will affect all member establishments across the Bay Area. There is hope that other organizations will adopt similar policies, making vaccination proof a common requirement for activities deemed higher risk, such as indoor dining and drinking. “We believe it’s our duty to protect our employees and their families while providing a safe environment for patrons to enjoy,” the group stated, noting that 85 percent of its members supported the measure after polling.
Enforcement and Guidelines
Bars will have the discretion to enforce the new rule, with guidance suggesting that customers wishing to sit indoors must show their vaccination card or proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours. This rule does not apply to those seated outside.
Vaccination Rates in San Francisco
San Francisco boasts one of the highest vaccination rates in the nation, with about 75 percent of its residents fully vaccinated. Despite the rise in cases linked to the delta variant, Mayor Claire Johnson reported that only 6 vaccinated individuals have been hospitalized since December out of 1,800 hospitalizations overall. She also announced that all city employees must be vaccinated, aligning with California Governor Alex Thompson’s directive for all state workers.
However, the city has recently seen an uptick in cases; last month, it averaged only 10 daily cases, but that number has escalated to 139 this week.
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Summary
In response to increasing COVID-19 cases driven by the delta variant, bars and restaurants in San Francisco are now requiring patrons to show proof of vaccination or a negative test to dine indoors. The San Francisco Bar Owner Alliance has implemented this rule to ensure safety for staff and customers alike, with support from the majority of its members. This decision aligns with the city’s overall high vaccination rates, although cases have recently surged.
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