Reston Chamber Requires Proof Of COVID-19 Vaccination At All In-Person Events

RESTON, VA — Anyone looking to attend an in-person event sponsored by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce is now required to show proof that they have been vaccinated for COVID-19, according to a chamber release.

"COVID-19 cases, exacerbated by virus variants, have significantly increased in Fairfax County," the release says. "The Centers for Disease Control currently identify the region as an area of 'substantial' spread. In acknowledgment of our role as a community leader, and in response to this increasing public health crisis, the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce is introducing additional safety guidelines for all in- person activities, effective Monday, September 13, 2021."

Under the new policy, GRCC members, guests or others attending a meeting organized by the chamber are required to provide proof that they are fully vaccinated, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control.

GRCC will accept the following forms of proof:

• COVID-19 vaccine card obtained from the CDC through a local health agency or vaccination outlet
• Photo of an official vaccination card
• Health Pass by CLEAR record or a similar vaccine record.
• Digital proof of your vaccination status obtained from the Virginia Department of Health.

Provided the event attendee approves, GRCC staff will record their vaccination status so that they will not have to show proof at future meetings or events.

GRCC will consider requests for exemptions due to religious, medical or disability reasons. In order for those requests to be considered, the attendee must provide related documentation at least three full business days before the event. If the chamber approves the exemption, the attendee must provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours of the event. They must also wear a face mask throughout the entire event. Access to the event will be rescinded if proof of the negative test or date of the test cannot be confirmed.

Attendees who are fully vaccinated will not be required to wear a face covering during a chamber event. However, they are welcome to wear one if that is their desire.

GRCC asks attendees, regardless of their vaccination status, not to attend any in-person chamber events if any of these conditions apply, according to the release:

1. You exhibit symptoms related to COVID-19.
2. You have tested positive for COVID-19 within the previous 14 days.
3. You have been exposed to an individual who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 14 days.
4. You are unable to follow the Chamber’s event safety guidelines.