Over one-third US states, some businesses ending COVID-19 mask mandates

MASK OR NOT

Businesses large and small are also grappling with how to adapt to the CDC's surprise guidance on Thursday that Americans who are vaccinated against COVID-19 can hang up their masks.

Some of the nation's largest retailers said that they have no immediate plans to change their policies and would continue requiring both customers and workers to wear masks on the premises, according to local media reports. Other businesses said they are re-evaluating their protocols.

Walt Disney World located in Orlando, Florida announced on Friday that masks and face coverings for guests would be "optional in outdoor common areas" at the resort starting on Saturday.

Grocery chain Trader Joe's became the first prominent US retailer on Friday to drop its mask policies for vaccinated shoppers. Then came Walmart, the country's No. 1 retailer, with more than 4,700 stores in the United States.

Walmart said in a memo to employees that as of Friday vaccinated customers can shop without masks. Fully vaccinated employees will be able to work without masks as of May 18, although workers who haven't been fully vaccinated will still need to wear masks.

The company also said it is giving $75 of bonuses to vaccinated workers as "a thank you for getting vaccinated," but employees will need to provide proof of vaccination to get the money.

"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," the memo said.