Newark's COVID-19 vaccine mandate is now in effect. Residents and people who visit the city will need to show proof of vaccination at certain locations.

Mayor Ras Baraka signed an executive order late last month for proof of vaccination to enter certain businesses.

The order affects restaurants, bars, gyms, concert halls, sporting venues, banquet halls and shared work facilities.

Under the new order, people 5 and older must show proof of at least one dose​ of the COVID-19 vaccine and be fully vaccinated three weeks later to enter one of the establishments.

The businesses must show signs​ at the front door letting customers know they have to be vaccinated to get inside.

"I think it's really good because I work here every day, we see a lot of people,” says Isabela Cunha. “It makes me safe, and it makes other people safe."

The mayor says there are some exceptions to the rule. Houses of worship, grocery stores, hospitals, pharmacies, election polling places, hardware stores and shelters for people who are homeless or domestic violence survivors do not need to ask for vaccination cards.

The mayor says the requirement does not apply to people who are not vaccinated due to medical conditions or deeply held religious beliefs. The mayor says people who are going inside a store for a quick, limited purpose, such as picking up a takeout order, do not have to show their card either.