Vaccines could no longer be required for New York City Department of Education employees as a judge's decision could impact that mandate for teachers and staff. However, the governor and mayor say that the vaccine mandates are the smart thing to do.

Currently, the mandate requires Department of Education staff members to provide proof that they've gotten their first dose by Sept. 27. and receive the second dose within 45 days. Between the start of school and Sept. 27, all non-vaccinated employees are required to submit weekly negative COVID-19 tests. A temporary restraining order against the mandate was granted by the state Supreme Court.

Executive Director for District Council 37 Henry Garrido says, "While we do believe our members should get the vaccine. We do not believe it should be a condition of employment. Clearly, the courts agree. The fight is not over, but we are energized by this decision and ready to keep going on behalf of our members."

The mayor is confident that this pause will have no impact on the vaccine mandate. If the judge says otherwise, this decision could change the course for vaccine mandates across the country.