SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Fans who plan to attend a Utah Jazz game at Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City no longer will be required to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test, the team said Tuesday.
Spectators have been required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test for events at the arena since September 2021. The new rule takes effect Feb. 25. Other event organizers may choose to impose COVID-19 protocols including mask or vaccine requirements, the statement said.
Vivint Arena was one of only a few venues in Utah to require proof of vaccination. Its lifting of the requirement comes as cases, hospitalizations and deaths decrease in the state after an omicron variant-fueled surge. It also comes as state lawmakers move forward on a proposal to block private businesses from requiring proof of vaccination for customers and employees — a policy that would have applied to Jazz games.
Other NBA and NHL teams also are easing their rules. The Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals lifted a mask mandate and requirement that fans show a proof of vaccination this week. Fans who sit near courtside still are required to wear masks, per NBA-wide rules designed to protect players.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.