With Excelsior Pass, New York became the first state to launch a so-called vaccine passport on Friday, USA Today reports. Democratic government Andrew Cuomo also promoted the launch on Twitter Friday.
Today we launched Excelsior Pass, a free platform for businesses and individuals that can be used to easily access secure evidence of a recent negative COVID test or vaccination.
It is a first of its kind tool to help NY fight COVID while safely reopening our economy.
Find out more:
– Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) March 26, 2021
Using the downloaded app with some personal information to confirm their identity, New Yorkers can prove they have been vaccinated with a digital QR code. “The data will come from the state vaccine registry and will also be linked to test data from a number of pre-approved testing companies,” said USA Today. The passport will be useful for going to events and venues, and “already allows people to increase the size of a wedding or other catered event.”
Of course, privacy and data issues abound, as Bloomberg has already written at least two pieces that raise issues.
Further, as one reads the state website overview, this particular excerpt comes to mind: “Once you and your party enter an establishment, you will still be asked to follow the state and CDC guidelines regarding to social detachment, facial coverage and hand hygiene. “
Are those who have been vaccinated no longer expected to wear a mask? Will President Joe Biden and Dr. Anthony Fauci still insist on wearing two? What’s even going to change?
Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) shot down the idea of a vaccine passport last week. “The vaccine passport is a terrible idea. We’re going to be offering absolutely nothing from a state perspective. That’s totally off the table,” Fox 4 News of Southwest Florida reported.