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Major Retailers are Dropping their Mask Rules (List Inside)

Ed Gaines
May 17, 2021
1 min read

Major retailers started announcing changes to face mask policies for fully vaccinated customers.

Trader Joe's, Walmart, Sam's Club, Costco and Publix all confirmed they are allowing 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, say they are still evaluating the CDC guidance but say they could update policies.

Starbucks makes masks "optional for vaccinated customers beginning today.

So far, businesses have said proof of the vaccine won't need to be shown and will be on the honor system.

The CDC announced last week 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.

Ride-shares still must adhere to the mask requirement and Uber and Lyft told USA TODAY that their mask policies are still in effect.

No masks for vaccinated customers, except in states and cities that have local mandates:

BJ's Wholesale Club

Costco

Publix

Sam's Club

Sprouts

Starbucks

Trader Joe's

Walmart

Stores still requiring masks, for now: