HOUSTON – As the CDC eases up on the COVID-19 guidelines, many Houston-area businesses are evaluating their mask policies.
Some retailers are forgoing masks for those who are fully vaccinated or making mask-wearing optional.
While others are not making changes yet.
Here is a round-up of statements from businesses:
Kroger
“At this time, The Kroger Family of Companies continues to require everyone in our stores to wear masks. We are encouraging and incentivizing associate vaccinations by offering a $100 one-time payment to associates who receive the recommended doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. As we have throughout the pandemic, we are reviewing current safety practices, the CDC’s latest guidance, and soliciting feedback from associates to guide the next phase of our policy. Additionally, we continue to encourage everyone to practice social distancing and frequent hand washing as well as consider the use of no-touch grocery delivery or low-contact grocery pickup.”
CVS
“We’re reevaluating our in-store mask policy based on the latest CDC guidance. The safety of our employees and customers will continue to guide our decision-making process.”
Walmart
“Beginning today, vaccinated customers and members are welcome to shop without a mask, and we will continue to request that non-vaccinated customers and members wear face coverings in our stores and clubs. We will update the signage in our facilities to reflect this.”
Retail Industry Leaders Association
This association represents retailers including Target, Lowe’s, Home Depot, Dollar General and Gap.
“Retailers are reviewing the latest CDC guidance to determine if any changes should be made to their current safety protocols. While these reviews are ongoing, it is critical for customers to remember the CDC announcement is guidance and that many state and local jurisdictions still have mask mandates in place that retailers must follow.”
Houston Zoo
“Effective immediately, the Houston Zoo will no longer require guests to wear facial coverings while visiting, unless participating in a paid animal encounter such as a scheduled behind the scenes tour or giraffe feeding. The Zoo continues to strongly encourage all unvaccinated guests to wear masks, and wants everyone to exercise safe social distancing in crowded situations, regardless of their vaccination status.”
Gyms
At gyms like Next Level Fitness in West University, owner Dewayne Malone said masks are optional.
They are still taking precautions: some of the trainers are wearing masks and they’re still sanitizing but Malone said since making it optional (on May 1), they’ve seen more clients return.
“You still see a few individuals with masks on but a great majority are choosing not to wear their masks,” he said.