Kroger, Target keep mask mandates after Ohio, CDC ease restrictions

Grocery and retail stores in Ohio will maintain their rules requiring customers to wear masks in stores after Gov. Mike DeWine lifted sanctions that required them and a federal health order indicating that vaccinated people no longer needed them.

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DeWine’s order Wednesday lifts the majority of health orders June 2. He has not yet commented on the latest guidelines by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Thursday that eased mask use by those who are fully vaccinated.

Kroger and Target, for now, will still require customers to wear masks in their stores, WHIO reported.

“At this time, The Kroger Family of Companies continues to require everyone in our stores to wear masks,” a spokesperson told WHIO.

Target is also keeping its health and safety protocols in place.

“Target will continue to require all of our coronavirus safety measures in all stores, including masks and social distancing, while we review today’s guidance from the CDC and re-evaluate the guidance we offer our team and guests,” a spokesperson told WHIO.

Walmart is reevaluating its mask rules and plans to announce any changes at a later date.

In Ohio, the health orders will be lifted except at nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Other businesses will have the option to enforce their own mask orders, but are not required to have them.

Cox Media Group