Kids under 12 could lose out due to proof of vaccine mandate

Starting September 13th, if a kid under the age of 12 wishes to enter certain non-essential facilities and their parent or guardian does not provide proof of vaccination, they will be turned away. Even if they both wear a mask.

The parent or guardian must be vaccinated themselves in order for a business to allow the adult and the child under the age of 12 inside.

For businesses like Game Changerz VR, kids are their main customers. Wagner says that she has followed all health orders to date and will follow the upcoming mandate, but the new rules could directly affect her customer base. The owner says she’s worried she may have to turn away some people.

“I mean we’re hoping that never happens. That’s all that we can do is sort of cross our fingers that everybody that comes through our door is aware of what our local and public health policies are and that we don’t ever have to turn anybody away. That would be devastating for us,” said Wagner.

It’s common to see young adults spending hours playing VR, but those are usually those over the age of 12. Wagner says the business has always had its own policy for those under the age of 12.

“We’ve always had a policy that under 12, has to be accompanied by a parent. So we’ll probably see a few bumps in the road where that is concerned. We don’t know if we’re going to change that or not,” said Wagner.

The business often hosts birthday parties and other events. Wagner already has one event booked for the weekend of September 24th, just after mandate comes into effect.

She just hopes more restrictions don’t come down the road which would force her to shut her doors.

“We’re just, we’re just hoping for the best here. We’ll keep pivoting like everyone else to try and make it as easy as we can for everyone to come to our establishment and have fun,” said Wagner.

by Oli Herrera

Kids under 12 could lose out due to proof of vaccine mandate

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