Hochul: Masks now required at daycares, mental health care facilities

ALBANY, N.Y. (WHEC) — New York Gov. Hochul Wednesday said effective immediately, masks will be required at daycare, and certain state-run day programs.

Hochul made the announcement during her COVID briefing in Albany.

This specifically applies to registered child care centers, home-based group family and family child care programs, after-school child care programs, and enrolled legally exempt group programs during operational hours.

The rule will also apply to certified residential and day programs, inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities, substance abuse programs, juvenile detention programs, juvenile residential facilities, congregate foster care programs, runaway and homeless youth, domestic violence, and other shelter programs.

The mandate is for everyone, regardless of vaccination status.

Hochul also announced basic EMTs will now have the ability to give COVID shots, in a move she says was requested by localities.

NEW: Basic EMTs can now administer the #COVID19 vaccines here in New York State. @GovKathyHochul says that’s something that local counties have asked for. @news10nbc

— Jennifer Lewke (@WHEC_JLewke) September 15, 2021

We are working to get you more specific details about both moves. Stay with News10NBC for developments.