Somerville Opts Against Proof Of Vaccine Policy For Now

SOMERVILLE, MA — The Somerville Board of Health pumped the brakes on enacting a proof of vaccination requirement for several indoor businesses, despite Mayor Joseph Curtatone's enthusiastic support for the policy announced in Boston on Monday.

At its meeting Tuesday night, the Board of Health postponed a vote until a public meeting on Jan. 14. In the meantime, it will monitor the trajectory of cases over the next few weeks and accept comment from residents and business owners.

Curtatone was among the vocal supporters of Boston Mayor Michelle Wu's "B Together" initiative, which launches Jan. 15 and requires all residents ages 12 and up to show proof of vaccination of at least one dose to enter certain public spaces, including restaurants, gyms, nightclubs and theaters.

"We're looking to join w/ Boston, Cambridge, Brookline, Arlington & Salem in taking a regional approach to making sure our restaurants are as safe as we can make them," Curtatone tweeted on Monday.

But not everyone was on board with the plan. Boston.com's Nik DeCosta-Klipa reported that detractors included residents, restaurant owners, the chamber of commerce and some local officials, who were concerned about additional staffing costs for businesses.

Comments may be submitted to the Somerville Board of Health ahead of its Jan. 14 meeting.