Bob Duffy Statement on Mask or Vaccine Mandates
ROCHESTER, NY (December 10, 2021) Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bob Duffy released the following statement in response to Governor Hochul’s announcement today pertaining to mask or vaccine mandates:
“Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce has always supported allowing businesses an opportunity to lead before the implementation of mandates. That said, Governor Hochul held off on instituting widespread directives to give the chance for self-correction. With the increasing trend in positivity rates and hospitalizations across the state, the Governor decided that action was necessary.
Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce and a significant number of our members have already had in place for months mask and/or vaccination mandates for both visitors and staff. Each week I am in dozens of businesses and have been impressed both by the leadership they show in insisting on masks or vaccination for entry, and by the voluntary compliance I have seen among customers who take it upon themselves to be safe. Such policies are good practice and help to keep safe employees, patrons, and the community at large.
We will continue working with businesses, government, and our healthcare systems to help stop the spread and get our region back on track. The sooner we do, the sooner these mandates will be lifted. As always, our office will be available to help answer questions and assist businesses in navigating these difficult times.”