By Jessica Easthope
We’ll see you in court. That’s attorney Mark Fonte’s response to a vaccine mandate he’s calling a ‘constitutional nightmare.’
“The first part of the 14th Amendment says every person and entity should have equal protection under the law. Restaurants are not being treated equally,” Mark said.
Later this month, New Yorkers will need proof of at least one vaccine to dine indoors, go to the gym or attend a concert. But the lawsuit being filed on behalf of elected officials representing Staten Island and Brooklyn, states it should be a personal choice.
“There’s a line that government right now is crossing that I think is inappropriate,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “We should encourage the vaccination, we should not mandate they get vaccinated or carry passports to be a part of everyday society.”
Mayor Bill de Blasio is crediting the city’s recent incentives with a 40 percent increase in vaccines in the first week of August. But these elected officials say – don’t take the numbers from us.
“People shouldn’t listen to me telling them get a vaccine,” said New York State Assemblyman Michael Reilly. “Talk to your medical provider, talk to your physician and they’ll give you the best advice for you.”
The lawsuit is looking to put a hold on the mandate until a judge can rule on the case – it will be filed on Aug. 16.