A day after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued new masking guidelines, retailers started announcing changes to mask policies for fully vaccinated customers. Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Sam’s Club, Costco, and Publix were the first to confirm updates to mask requirements, leading the way for mask-free shopping except where required by state or local mandate. In some cases, vaccinated store employees can also go to work without a mask.
Many retailers, including Apple, Target, CVS, and Walgreens, are still evaluating the CDC guidance but could update policies. Publix’s mask update starts Saturday and is for fully vaccinated shoppers and workers.
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Don’t forget your mask: Masks are still required now at Target, Walgreens, CVS, and more, but retailers are reviewing new CDC mask guidance. “By CDC guidelines, individuals who are not fully vaccinated are required to use face coverings over their noses and mouths inside any Publix store,” the grocery store chain said in a statement Friday.
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Bloomberg reported Friday night that Apple stores would continue to require masks and follow other COVID-19 procedures as the company evaluates health and safety measures. Apple was one of the first retailers to mandate masks. The CDC said Thursday that fully vaccinated Americans, for the most part, no longer need to wear masks indoors and don’t have to wear masks outdoors, even in crowded spaces.
But privately-owned businesses can still require masks, which most of the nation’s largest retailers started mandating last summer. Other exceptions exist when the CDC recommends acts, such as in health care settings, transportation hubs such as airports and stations, planes, and public transportation. Conflicts at businesses and viral videos of shoppers’ tirades erupted amid the coronavirus pandemic. The CDC advised stores not to argue with angry anti-mask customers.
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Lisa LaBruno, senior executive vice president at the Retail Industry Leaders Association, said that the CDC guidance “creates ambiguity for retailers because it fails to align with state and local orders fully.”
LaBruno urged customers to follow safety protocols, including wearing masks and social distancing. “Frontline workers deserve this respect. Retailers encourage customers that do not want to wear a mask to shop online or via curbside pickup offerings,” LaBruno said.
No masks for vaccinated shoppers
Some exceptions apply, including in states and cities that have local mandates.
Stores still require masks, for now.
These lists will be updated as more retailers decide whether or not to update mask policies or share plans.
Contributing: Adrianna Rodriguez, USA TODAY; Jane Musgrave, Palm Beach Post; Emily DeLetter, Cincinnati Enquirer
Follow USA TODAY reporter Kelly Tyko on Twitter: @KellyTyko.
