BRIGHTON, N.Y. — New York state announced earlier this week it would require all state workers to get vaccinated or be tested for COVID-19 weekly. Health care workers who work directly with patients cannot opt-out for testing.
The state says that has to happen by Labor day.
Governor Andrew Cuomo is also encouraging private businesses to require the same and that is slowly being rolled out.
The Friendly Senior Living home in Brighton says it is now requiring all staff to get the vaccine. Leaders there say residents and their families support the decision.
"Throughout the day I have received a number of supportive emails from grateful family members saying thank you," said Vice President Michael Perrotta. "This brings another level of peace of mind for them."
The retirement community says 80% of its staff members are already fully vaccinated.