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We wrote about which stores required shoppers to wear masks when they first implemented the policies — and now that people are getting vaccinated and Covid-19 numbers are dropping, we’re here to tell you who ISN’T requiring masks anymore.
If you’ve been fully vaccinated against Covid-19, your days of wearing face masks at these places are over. (And, you have a shot at getting some freebies, too.)
Note: if your local government still requires masks, the stores will still require them, too. And many businesses will note that they reserve the right to change the policy, depending on how the pandemic shakes out.
These stores are letting you show your face again:
Costco Mask Policy
Costco now allows fully vaccinated customers to shop without a face mask, except in places where a state or local government requires facial coverings. Their company statement explained that while they wouldn’t require proof of vaccination, they “ask for members’ responsible cooperation.”
Walmart & Sam’s Club Mask Policy
Walmart (and their sister company Sam’s Club) dropped their face mask requirement for customers and employees who have been fully vaccinated (except where state/local governments require it).
While employees will have to vouch for their vaccination status, customers won’t be asked. Unvaccinated customers are expected to continue wearing masks, although Walmart says the whole thing is based on the honor system.
Target Mask Policy
As of May 17, any Target customers or employees who have been fully vaccinated no longer have to wear masks inside of the store. As for unvaccinated customers and employees, they still “strongly recommend” masks.
Of course, where state and local regulations require masks, they still have to be worn.
Starbucks Mask Policy
As of Monday, May 17, Starbucks is allowing fully vaccinated customers to opt out of wearing masks, except in places where the local government requires them.
Associates, however, will still be wearing masks for the time being.
Trader Joe’s Mask Policy
Trader Joe’s was one of the first major retailers to drop their mask requirement for vaccinated customers. They say they’re relying on the honor system for unvaccinated customers to continue wearing masks until CDC guidelines change.
CVS Mask Policy
While employees will still be wearing masks for the time being, CVS Pharmacy will allow fully vaccinated customers to shop without a mask. Not fully vaccinated customers are expected to wear a mask, but there’s no proof of vaccination policy.
Publix
Starting May 15, Publix no longer requires masks for customers or employees who have been fully vaccinated. The grocery chain said those who aren’t fully vaccinated still have to wear masks, but they aren’t requiring verification.
Walt Disney World
As of Saturday, May 15, Walt Disney World is no longer requiring guests to wear masks when outdoors. They still require masks when indoors, for the time being.
