NYSE requiring vaccines for access to trading floor

The New York Stock Exchange said Wednesday that it is requiring personnel to be fully vaccinated against the coronavirus to access the trading floor.

In a memo obtained by The Hill, NYSE Chief Operating Officer Michael Blaugrund said full vaccination will be required to access the trading floor Monday-Friday, effective Sept. 13.

Those who need to have access to the trading floor but cannot be vaccinated due to medical or religious reasons must request an accommodation by Sept. 7.

Personnel granted exemptions must provide a negative COVID-19 test from within the prior 48 hours, or three times per week, until further notice. In addition, such personnel will have to wear a “N95 equivalent or surgical mask at all times” on the trading floor, Blaugrund said.

Blaugrund further said that the exchange is expanding its onsite random testing program to include vaccinated personnel, effective immediately.

The changes apply to those with access to the NYSE and American Options Trading Floors, including employees of member firms, NYSE employees and vendors.

News of the policy was first reported by CNBC. The news outlet noted that people visiting to ring the bell and for IPOs are already required to show proof of vaccination.

The mandate comes as the U.S. grapples with a rise in coronavirus infections fueled by the delta variant.

Citigroup, Google, Walmart and United Airlines have all announced some forms of vaccine mandates for their workers.